Maria Sharapova and the 10 Most Entertaining Players at the 2011 US Open

The US Open is a spectacular stage for tennis. The fast paced courts and lights of Arthur Ashe stadium always set the tone for a fun tournament to watch.

This year's US Open should be just as exciting as ever. There are many players in the men's and women's field that really know how to put on a show.

Be prepared to see some of these players on the highlight reels.

Maria Sharapova

The title slide player, Maria Sharapova has always been a must watch at the US Open. After coming back from shoulder surgery, Sharapova has really stepped up her game.

Sharapova received the third seed in the women's draw this year and should be around for a good run in this tournament. She is a hard hitter who has really improved on her game, especially her serve.

The screaming might repel some viewers, but guys will stick around for her.

Rafael Nadal

You don't win 10 Grand Slams without putting on some impressive performances. Rafael Nadal puts his body on the line throughout every match, making him a great player to watch.

He covers the court better than most with his speed, and he has plenty of power. People also love to see that running forehand shot that just curves in at the last second. Nadal can always make a match interesting. 

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic has always been fun to watch, but he has really stepped up his game in 2011.

With a record a 58-2 now, there's no denying that he is on top of the tennis world right now. Djokovic entertains crowds with his electrifying shots but also with his humor. 

He has been known to do imitations of other players which most fans find hilarious. Don't let his laid back attitude fool you though, he turns up the intensity during each match.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is naturally a fan favorite at the US Open because she's an American player. She receives a ton of support every time she plays in Queens, New York.

Williams has won two titles at Flushing Meadows and will be looking for a third in 2011. She's one of the most powerful players on the women's side and has great consistency.

Gael Monfils

He has never won a Grand Slam, but Gael Monfils always puts on a good show. The Frenchman is very active on the court and covers it well.

Monfils has been known to not take matches as seriously as he should, which can be more fun for the crowd. We've seen him hit it through the legs when there was no need. We've seen him jump up onto the crowd barrier to get everyone riled up.

He may not have the best arsenal out there, but his quick feet and energy make for a great performance every match.

Roger Federer

Roger Federer is a must watch wherever he goes. Fans adore him and for good reason. He makes so many ridiculous shots, it's hard to believe.

Watch the video and tell me he's not entertaining.

Andy Roddick

Andy Roddick is another American who is beloved by the fans in New York. He's won one US Open in his career, and even though he probably won't win another, that doesn't stop his supporters from coming out to see him.

Roddick has one of the fastest serves you'll ever see. He also has a bad attitude at times, which can be fun to watch as well. And if you don't even like tennis, at least Brooklyn Decker will always be around, so there's something to look forward to.

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga may not be the most athletic player, but you can't help but watch him play.

He was on the ground half the time at Wimbledon this year, diving for balls left and right. He had several highlights that made SportsCenter's Top 10.

Tsonga is a big and poweful, which certainly makes for some interesting matches. 

Bernard Tomic

Maybe it's because he's only 18 years old, but there's something about Bernard Tomic that just makes you want to watch him play.

The rising star from Australia made it to the quarterfinals of Wimbledon this year and put up a bit of fight against soon to be champion Novak Djokovic. Tomic should be even more fun to watch for years to come.

Alexandr Dolgopolov

Many people struggle pronouncing the name Alexandr Dolgopolov, and plenty of people still don't even know who he is.

The 22-year-old Ukrainian has a very unorthodox playing style, which might be the reason I like to watch him play. His jumping forehand sort of resembles Andy Murray at times.

Dolgopolov throws opponents off sometimes with his sudden burst of offense. He will be one to look out for at this year's US Open.