In a bold move, US tennis officials announced a radical overhaul of the US Open mixed doubles format, transforming it into a standalone event set to take place on August 19-20, just before the main singles draws. The competition will feature 16 teams—eight based on combined singles rankings and eight wild cards—competing under a new, fast-paced rulebook.
Key Changes:
- Shortened Sets: Best-of-three sets, with sets played to four games, no-advantage scoring, and tiebreaks at 4-4.
- Final Format: Best-of-three to six games, maintaining no-ad scoring, with a 10-point match tiebreak if needed.
- Venue: All matches on center-stage courts—Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Mixed Reactions:
While the USTA hails this as a way to boost mixed doubles’ profile, critics argue it undermines the event’s prestige.
- Paul McNamee, former doubles world No. 1, blasted the changes: “Sets to four games in a Grand Slam? The US Open will not produce a bona fide mixed doubles winner. It’s been devalued to an exhibition.”
- Jan Zielinski, a Grand Slam mixed doubles champion, called it “sad,” criticizing the lack of player consultation and disregard for tradition.
- Reigning champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori condemned it as a “profound injustice,” accusing organizers of prioritizing profit over the integrity of the sport.
Despite the backlash, USTA executive director Lew Sherr defended the revamp: “We’re elevating mixed doubles, giving it center stage, and creating new opportunities for fans to engage with the sport.”
With the main singles draw now starting on August 24, the US Open’s shift towards entertainment – driven formats continues to spark debate within the tennis community.
