With some notable names not participating in the US Open this year (like Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Milos Raonic and Kei Nishikori), the draw is as open as ever for someone new to take the trophy. Of course, most people are picking Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal, including retired Americans James Blake and Andy Roddick.

However, the two are also excited about the youth movement and how far they can go in big tournaments. Roddick's current favorite is Alexander Zverev, the fourth seed.

"Alexander Zverev is the most exciting guy that I've watched in a long time, as far as a young player," Roddick said. "I like Zverev winning Washington, following it up with winning Canada, he's just there every single week, which is why I think he is the guy to take it."

As far as which American could put on a show, Blake likes Francis Tiafoe and Jared Donaldson.

"I like his game, I think he's got tons of talent," he said about Tiafoe.

It will be a huge challenge for the teenager though, as he drew Roger Federer in the first round, and will face him on Tuesday night.