The chief protagonists: Roger Federer, at 30, fighting time and more physical foes in pursuit of a 17th major title; Rafael Nadal, whose victory last year completed a career Grand Slam; and Novak Djokovic, on track, with a 57-2 record, for the best season in the history of the men?s game.
Serena Williams, who blazed through two tournament titles this summer after a year-long injury absence, apparently thought she had enough preparation in the middle of the Cincy event.
Maria Sharapova has won before, but can she put it all together for two weeks? She is still struggling with her serve after her shoulder surgery. But she's a fighter so don't count her out.
Vera Zvonareva is a world of ranking points behind Wozniacki, and no one is holding their breath for her to win a first Slam title without busting into tears and hysterics.