1. John Isner
The 28 year old American is probably best known for his record breaking match against Mahut in the 2010 Wimbledon championships. The 11 hour and 5 minute mammoth match broke many records, with Isner finally winning in the final set 70 games to 68. Though ranked at 22nd, 13 places behind his career high, Isner has enjoyed a recent vain of good form displaying some inspired play. Turning pro in 2007, the 28 year old seems to have blossomed late compared to other players, but with the likes of Federer and Ferrer (both over 30) still playing at the highest level, Isners career is far from finished. His playing style is highly effective though less rounded than the top ranked players. At the giant height of 6 foot 10 inches Isner is the equal tallest player on the tour. He uses the height to regularly deliver plus 140mph thumping serves, combined with a bullet like forehand. This one-two combination often defeats even the best returners in the game. The recent form of John Isner has been fantastic, the main reason why I will be watching him very carefully at this years US open. On hard court Isner triumphed at Atlanta, followed by an impressive final round finish in Washington (which he lost to previously listed player Del Potro). It was in the just-finished Cincinnati open where he has shown the most promise however, beating three top ten players in a row to reach the final. This incredible string of wins included a victory over world no.1 Novak Djokovic. If Isner can continue to play at this level going into the US open and utilise the home advantage he could indeed be the dark horse of the tournament.
Who do you think will be the ones to watch at this years US open, let us know in the comments below