The decision to reschedule this year’s mixed doubles competition at the US Open has stirred significant controversy among players, particularly defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori.
This year’s mixed doubles competition at the US Open will be conducted earlier than usual, on August 19 and 20, ahead of the main tournament start on August 24. This shift aims to feature some of tennis’s biggest stars, making them more accessible for mixed doubles play and enhancing fan engagement. However, this change has not been well received by some players.
Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori have expressed their dissatisfaction, labeling the event a ‘pseudo-exhibition’ and describing the shift as a ‘profound injustice.’ They argue that it disrespects the players by prioritizing profit over tradition. In a joint Instagram post, they voiced their concern over the impact of profit-driven decisions on the sport, highlighting the emotional significance of their previous win and the joy of being part of the tournament’s history.
The lack of communication and consideration for players’ careers and traditions has also been criticized by Jan Zieliński, a Polish two-time mixed doubles champion. He conveyed his disappointment on the platform X, emphasizing the absence of dialogue with players regarding their careers and the sport’s legacy.
Under the new arrangement, eight teams will be chosen based on their singles rankings, and another eight will receive wild-card entries. Additionally, a new scoring system features sets played to four games with no-ad scoring and a deciding 10-point tie-break in place of a third set. Matches will be hosted at the prestigious Arthur Ashe or Louis Armstrong Stadiums.
Despite the backlash, top American players Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz have welcomed the change, expressing excitement about the opportunity to participate in the mixed doubles tournament. This format was designed, according to a press release, to enhance the experience for fans, players, and broadcasters. It offers the world’s top players a chance to compete without conflicting with their singles and doubles commitments, with a winning team prize of $1 million, up significantly from last year’s $200,000.
USTA executive director and CEO Lew Sherr has endorsed the format shift, highlighting the chance to elevate mixed doubles by shining a greater light on the talent within the sport. He noted the collaboration with top players and broadcasting partners to promote this innovation as a way to bolster excitement and visibility for mixed doubles.
The mixed doubles event at the US Open, with its revamped schedule and format, has sparked a polarized response. While some players see it as a chance to highlight mixed doubles, others believe it undermines traditions and disrespects the players involved.
