As we’ve said before, tennis is the perfect sport for fangirls.  And the US Open is finally here!  After spending the rest of the year watching our score app or trying to find a live stream, we finally get to see our favorite players up close and in person.  So, in honor of the US Open kicking off on Monday, August 31st, here are our 5 players to watch.

1.Grigor Dimitrov
Grigor is one of the hottest young rising stars in the sport.  And if you’ve ever wondered what Grigor’s favorite Backstreet Boys’ song is, we suggest you watch this video.  (also an ATP boyband?  Yes please!)

2.Rafa Nadal
Thank you, Tommy Hilfiger.  Thank you.

3.Richard Gasquet
The Frenchman has by far the most beautiful backhand in the game, among other things. We’ll be cheering “ALLEZ!”

4.Mardy Fish
We’re thrilled to see Mardy back at the US Open this year, as he’s played some of our favorite matches ever at the tournament.  Sadly Mardy will be retiring after this year’s US Open.  We’ll never forget the crowd cheering “who lives in a pineapple under the sea?”  “MARDYYY MARDDYYYY”

5.Pierre-Hugues Herbert
Or as well call him, “P2Hugz,” thanks to his Twitter handle.  The Frenchman was officially inducted to the French Davis Cup squad earlier this year, and they made him sing.

(header photo via Nike Court)