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Tennis' fourth and final major gets underway on Monday when the U.S. Open begins in Flushing, New York. Certainly the biggest story coming into the tournament is the absence of Rafael Nadal who withdrew because of a knee injury.
Even without Nadal, the men's field is still loaded with Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray. Former UGA Bulldog John Isner earned a 9th seed and will open the tournament against Xavier Malisse. Isner's draw is favorable, as he won't run into any of the big three players before the tournament semifinals. Isner suffered a disappointing first-round upset at Wimbledon and will be looking to bounce back in a big way.
Serena Williams enters the tournament as the overwhelming favorite on the women's side. Marietta, Georgia's Melanie Oudin will open play against 15th seeded Lucie Safarova.
For more coverage of Isner and the rest of the field at the US Open, stay tuned to SB Nation Atlanta as well as SB Nation's tennis hub.