The US Open is shifting its mixed doubles championship to the week preceding singles competition, aiming to entice top players with a new format and a $1 million (approximately $1.59 million AUD) prize. This year’s tournament will feature 16 teams engaging in shorter matches over two days, with the hope of attracting stars who usually forgo doubles to focus on singles.
Lew Sherr, the USTA’s executive director, stated that the move aims to enhance global fan engagement by showcasing prominent players in doubles with an exciting new structure. The mixed doubles will take place on August 19 and 20, during the singles qualifying rounds, utilising a format of best-of-three sets to just four games, with alternative scoring rules.
However, the changes have drawn criticism from players who believe the event now lacks grand slam status, with Jan Zielinski, a previous mixed doubles champion, lamenting the lack of communication and respect for tradition. Despite concerns, Sherr expressed optimism that the enhanced prize pool and structure will create a legitimate championship atmosphere. The tournament will be held in the major stadiums, offering significant visibility for doubles, although it may limit opportunities for dedicated doubles players. Sherr suggested that the excitement generated by mixed doubles could ultimately boost interest in men’s and women’s doubles in the broader tournament context.