In an exciting announcement for tennis enthusiasts, British No. 1 Emma Raducanu and reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz are set to collaborate for the revamped mixed doubles event at the US Open, which will occur in mid-August. This mixed doubles competition, a fresh addition to the tournament, has garnered significant attention due to its substantial prize pool, with a whopping $1 million on the line for the duo that claims victory. Scheduled for August 19-20, this event will precede the main US Open tournament, which is slated to commence at the iconic Flushing Meadows on August 24.
A star-studded lineup of competitors is expected for this year’s mixed doubles, illustrating the high-profile nature of the event. Among the participating teams, former US Open champion Naomi Osaka has chosen to partner with the ever-controversial Australian player Nick Kyrgios. Meanwhile, British player Jack Draper is set to team up with Chinese tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen, currently ranked No. 4 in the world. The addition of global superstars like Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner, who will play alongside compatriot Olga Danilovic and American Emma Navarro respectively, marks this event as one that promises thrilling competition. Notably, the new format and scheduling will effectively extend the tournament across three weeks, heightening the anticipation among fans and players alike.
Additionally, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has decided to join forces with Bulgarian ace Grigor Dimitrov, while Polish sensation Iga Swiatek will partner with Norwegian player Casper Ruud. The diversity of teams in terms of nationalities and playing styles adds to the excitement of the competition, promising not only engaging matches but also a vibrant atmosphere at the US Open.
Lew Sherr, the CEO and Executive Director of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), expressed the tangible excitement surrounding the mixed doubles event. He emphasized that seeing the notable names on the entry list aligns with the organization’s vision for this tournament. Furthermore, he expressed confidence that fans would be thrilled with the event, highlighting the broad appeal of seeing top players collaborate and compete in this innovative format.
Contrarily, some prominent players have yet to confirm their participation. Notably, Holger Rune and Coco Gauff, both of whom are ranked within the top ten of their respective categories, are currently absent from the participant list for this mixed doubles event. In a twist to the selection process, eight of the participating pairs will secure their spots based on their combined singles ranking as of July 28, the deadline for entry. The remaining eight teams will be finalized through wild card selections, with an announcement regarding those pairs expected to follow.
Earlier in the year, the transition to a new mixed doubles format was met with some resistance from certain quarters. Italian duo Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, who clinched the US Open mixed doubles title last year, characterized the shift as a “profound injustice” initially. However, they have since registered for the upcoming tournament, showcasing a willingness to adapt to the new structure.
Following the mixed doubles, the main US Open tournament will unfold from August 24 to September 7, rounding off the tennis Grand Slam calendar for the year. This event will arrive on the heels of Wimbledon, set to captivate audiences from June 30 to July 13.
In conclusion, with an exciting roster of players and the promise of thrilling matches, the upcoming mixed doubles event at the US Open has generated considerable buzz. The innovative format embraces a fresh approach to the traditional tournament structure, indicating a dynamic evolution in the sport. As anticipation builds for these matchups, viewers can expect a showcase of talent, camaraderie, and competitive spirit, ensuring an unforgettable series of matches at this year’s US Open.
The initial participants include notable combinations such as Emma Navarro & Jannik Sinner, Zheng Qinwen & Jack Draper, and Aryna Sabalenka & Grigor Dimitrov among others, culminating in a diverse and competitive lineup that is sure to thrill fans around the world as they prepare to watch and follow the incredible journey of their favorite athletes in this distinct new format.