The US Open has announced major changes to its mixed doubles competition, sparking debate among players and fans alike. This year, eight teams will be selected based on their combined singles ranking, while another eight will receive wild-card entries. The matches will take place on August 19 and 20, several days before the tournament’s official start, at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium. The decision aims to showcase top tennis players and attract more fans to the game. However, it has also drawn criticism from defending champions and other participants.
This year's competition will feature a new scoring system, where sets will be played to four games instead of the traditional six, excluding the final. The no-ad scoring format will determine the game winner after deuce, and a 10-point tie-break will replace a third set. These changes aim to make matches more engaging and concise, appealing to a broader audience. In addition, the prize for the winning team has been significantly increased to $1 million, up from last year's $200,000. This substantial boost underscores the organizers' commitment to elevating the profile of mixed doubles.
The US Open mixed doubles event will be broadcast by ESPN and other partners, alongside other singles and doubles events at Flushing Meadows. Top American singles players Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz have expressed enthusiasm for participating in the mixed doubles this year. However, not all athletes share this sentiment. The decision to hold the competition earlier has met with criticism from some players who feel it undermines the prestige of the event.
Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with the changes. They have labeled the adjustments as a "pseudo-exhibition" and a "profound injustice." They argue that prioritizing profit over tradition can be detrimental in certain situations.
"In our opinion making decisions just following the logic of profit is profoundly wrong in some situations." – Errani and Vavassori
Errani and Vavassori fondly recalled their victory last year, describing it as one of the greatest moments in their careers. They emphasized the importance of tradition and history in Grand Slam competitions.
"Last year, to win the US Open together was one of the greatest moments in our careers. We felt unbelievable warmth and support from the Italian fans and this made us really happy." – Errani and Vavassori
"Mixed doubles is not very well known, that’s true, but everything that’s part of a Slam competition – the History behind every single result – is unique and it’s a great honour to become part of it." – Errani and Vavassori
"Coming back the following year and seeing your names engraved in the trophy board is one of the most special feelings in our sport. You realize that you will be forever remembered as a small part of this important tournament." – Errani and Vavassori
In response to these criticisms, USTA executive director and CEO Lew Sherr highlighted the collaborative efforts with top players eager to embrace this change. He emphasized the support from broadcasting partners like ESPN in showcasing this innovation.
"We’re working closely with top players, many of whom are eager to be part of this historic change. And having our broadcasting partners, including ESPN, on board to showcase this innovation only adds to the excitement, ensuring that fans everywhere will get to witness these elite athletes team up and redefine the game together." – Lew Sherr
Sherr further noted that by giving mixed doubles its own spotlight, they aim to elevate its status and focus on the exceptional talent within tennis.
"By giving the competition its own spotlight, we’re elevating mixed doubles to put an even greater focus on the incredible talent we have across the sport," – Lew Sherr
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