US Open Tennis 2016: Bracket Predictions, Odds for Top Players and Prize Money

Novak Djokovic has been given a tough draw as he bids to defend his U.S. Open title. The Serb is in the first quarter of the draw and will meet Jerzy Janowicz in the opening round.

As a result of the draw, Marin Cilic could be waiting for Djokovic in the quarter-final. It’s a daunting path for the two-time tournament winner.

Serena Williams won’t have things any easier at the start of the women’s event. She goes up against Ekaterina Makarova in the first round, who she faced at the semi-final stage back in 2014.

Whoever does emerge at the top of both brackets can expect to collect a massive $3.5 million, per Steven Kutz of Market Watch, making this the most lucrative tennis tournament in history.

Here’s what the payouts look like:

Here are the odds for the top players:

Djokovic Will Reign Again

He may be facing a daunting draw, but Djokovic welcomes it, per ESPN Tennis:

“Grand Slams are valued the most in our sport…so these are the tournaments where I want to do well & do my best.” pic.twitter.com/ru7bwYOrjU

— ESPNTennis (@ESPNTennis) August 26, 2016

Of course, making good on his confidence will mean getting past Janowicz. The Pole reached …

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