NEW DELHI: Novak Djokovic will partner Aryna Sabalenka as top tennis stars headline the initial list of 16 teams that have entered this year’s revamped US Open mixed doubles championship. The event, which offers a $1 million prize to the winning pair, has once again attracted many of the biggest names in singles tennis after its successful launch last year.Among the notable entries are Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, last year’s runner-up, Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz, Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori, and Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper. Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori have also entered, although they probably need a wild card again due to their low ranking in singles.
How the tournament works
The main draw will take place over two days, August 25-26, with all matches scheduled at Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium. Six teams with the best combined singles rankings after entries close on August 17 will automatically qualify, while eight teams will receive wild cards and two more will earn their spots through the qualifying event on August 24.The revised format, introduced last year, drew criticism for favoring singles players over doubles specialists. However, it proved popular with fans, attracting around 78,000 spectators and sell-out crowds over two days.
The USTA supports the revised format
USTA CEO Craig Tiley believes the event has added a new dimension to the Grand Slam.“Any time you can bring girls and boys on the same team, you show the best tennis. This is exactly what the mixed doubles championship does,” he said.“The mixed doubles championship is an innovation that will attract new viewers and give our fans another opportunity to see the biggest stars compete.”The qualifying tournament also created many opportunities for doubles specialists this year. The matches up to the semifinals will be played in an abbreviated best-of-three format, while the final will follow traditional scoring with a full six-game set.