US Open 2012 Draw: Date, Time, Live Stream Info and More

The 2012 U.S. Open from New York City is set to begin on Monday, and the best tennis players in the world are gearing up in an attempt to bring home the season's final Grand Slam.

Roger Federer, the 17-time Grand Slam champion, was announced as the No. 1 seed on the men's side for this summer's tournament. Meanwhile, reigning Olympic gold medalist Andy Murray will enter as the No. 3 seed, courtesy of Rafael Nadal, who withdrew from the tournament because of a nagging knee injury.

On the women's side, 2011 U.S. Open champion Samantha Stosur looks to repeat, while American star Serena Williams attempts to win her second Grand Slam of 2012. Aussie Open champ Victoria Azarenka will also be among the female favorites at Flushing Meadows, and has an Olympic bronze to her name now as well.

With that said, the 2012 U.S. Open is sure to be just as unpredictable and thrilling as ever. Here is everything you need to know for this year's tournament.

Where: Flushing Meadows, NY

Watch: Tennis Channel, ESPN2, CBS Sports

When: Monday, August 27 through Sunday, September 9

Live Stream: ESPN3.com

Draw: TBA on Thursday, August 23 at 12 p.m. ET (Stream Live at USOpen.org)

Most Important Player to Watch: Novak Djokovic

The defending U.S. Open champion has looked very human since winning the 2012 Australian Open back in January, and needs a Grand Slam win this summer if he is to regain his confidence heading into 2013.

Djokovic will be seeded No. 2 on the men's side at Flushing Meadows, and will likely have a smooth path to the final if he brings his A game. Djokovic's preferred surface is the hard court, on which he has won four of his five career Grand Slams.

With that said, look for Novak to be the strongest player on the men's side throughout the two-week tournament. The demanding surface plays to his strengths and will make him a favorite by many to repeat in New York City.

Men's Singles Prediction: Novak Djokovic

Although Roger Federer has had Novak Djokovic's number over the past few months, one still has to love Djokovic's chances to repeat in New York City. The last time we saw him on this surface at a major, he was playing lights out at the Aussie Open. 

In addition, Fed is 31 years old, while Djokovic is only 25. This gives the Serb a superior advantage in terms of youth and recovery time. With Rafael Nadal out, Djokovic's big rival won't be a problem. That leaves only Andy Murray, who has never won a Grand Slam despite all of his talent.

Women's Singles Prediction: Victoria Azarenka

The 23-year-old Victoria Azarenka won her first Grand Slam earlier this year at the 2012 Australian Open, and proved with a dominating win over Maria Sharapova that she belongs among the favorites at each and every tournament.

Her exceptional power and solid mobility will be key for her chances at the U.S. Open this summer. Her age will also benefit her as she prepares to face the rigors of yet another two-week major tournament. Azarenka is the real deal, and she will prove that with a second career Grand Slam.

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter For More Reaction and Analysis on the 2012 US Open This Summer.