US Open Mixed Doubles Controversy: Doubles Specialists Decry New Format Prioritizing Singles Stars

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has ignited controversy with its 2025 US Open mixed doubles format overhaul, drawing sharp criticism from doubles specialists and 2024 champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori. The new 16-team format reserves half the spots for players based on singles rankings, effectively sidelining doubles specialists who traditionally compete in this Grand Slam event.

Format Changes:

• Team Selection: 8 spots based on singles rankings, 8 wild cards
• Schedule: August 19-20 during qualifying week
• Match Format:
  • Early rounds: Best-of-three sets to 4 games
  • Tiebreakers at 4-all, 10-point match tiebreaker if sets are split
  • Final: Best-of-three sets to 6 games with no-ad scoring

Reactions:

• Champions' Protest: Errani and Vavassori criticized the move on Instagram, calling it a 'pseudo-exhibition focused only on entertainment and show.'
• Historical Context: Paul McNamee, former Australian Open director, labeled the modified event 'devalued from a Grand Slam title to an exo.'

USTA's Defense:

USTA CEO Lew Sherr defended the format, stating the goal was to 'increase tennis' fan base' by featuring top singles players. The USTA plans to boost prize money to $1 million and televise the event in prime time on ESPN, a rarity for doubles.

Impact on Doubles Players:

The new format squeezes out doubles specialists reliant on Grand Slam paychecks. Jan Zielinski, a two-time Grand Slam mixed doubles winner, lamented the lack of player communication and respect for history.

Future Implications:

While the USTA aims to 'create more interest globally in doubles,' the format's long-term effects on the sport's traditions and player careers remain uncertain.