Djokovic and Sabalenka to team up in US Open mixed doubles
Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will form a duo in the US Open mixed doubles, returning with a shortened format featuring sets to four games.
Star-Studded Duo in New York
US Open organizers have announced the provisional entry list for mixed doubles, headlined by the pairing of women's world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and multiple Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. Sabalenka currently leads the WTA rankings, while Djokovic is a 24-time major winner.
Format Changes
For the second consecutive year, the mixed doubles event at the New York major will feature a shortened format. Sets are played to four games instead of the usual six, and if a third set is needed, a 10-point tiebreak replaces it. Only the final will be played with standard set length, though further modifications aim to reduce match duration. This approach is designed to attract top singles stars and boost fan interest.
Other Notable Pairs
The provisional list includes several other strong duos: Iga Swiatek with Casper Ruud, Taylor Townsend with Alexander Zverev, Jessica Pegula with Jack Draper, and Naomi Osaka with Kei Nishikori. A total of 16 pairs are listed.
Criticism from Doubles Specialists
Last year's champions, Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori—the only "true" doubles specialists in the field—criticized the simplified format. The changes have drawn objections from doubles enthusiasts again this year. Notably, Wimbledon mixed doubles champion Alona Ostapenko, who won with Marcelo Arévalo in July, is not on the provisional US Open list.
Entry Deadline
Registration for the tournament remains open until August 17. After that, six teams with the best singles rankings will gain automatic entry, eight will receive wild cards, and the last two spots will be decided in a qualifying round featuring eight pairs.
