US Open 2025: Williams and Alcaraz team up for mixed doubles
23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams pairs up with Carlos Alcaraz for the US Open mixed doubles, taking place August 24-26 after receiving a wildcard.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz receive a wildcard for US Open mixed doubles
- The tournament runs from August 24 to 26 before the singles main draw begins
- The revamped format brings top singles stars together to boost tournament engagement
The tennis world is set for a blockbuster pairing as 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams teams up with seven-time major winner Carlos Alcaraz for the upcoming US Open mixed doubles tournament. Combined, the two superstars boast an astonishing 44 singles and doubles Grand Slam titles and have been awarded a direct wildcard into the main draw.
Williams made her highly anticipated return to the sport in June after four years away, recently playing doubles alongside her sister Venus at the Cincinnati Open following a Wimbledon knee injury. Meanwhile, Alcaraz is set to make his competitive return after a four-month layoff due to a wrist injury, making the mixed doubles event an ideal testing ground for both players.
The US Open mixed doubles format underwent a controversial revamp last year, designed specifically to integrate top-tier singles players and draw greater media attention. While traditional doubles specialists like defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori initially criticized the overhaul, they ultimately triumphed and claimed the $1 million prize purse.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
This year's draw is stacked with high-profile duos, including world number one Aryna Sabalenka partnering with 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic, American duo Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz, alongside Iga Swiatek paired with Casper Ruud. Additionally, Elina Svitolina teams up with her husband Gael Monfils for what marks the Frenchman's final Grand Slam appearance before retirement.
"completed their mission"
Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori
The strategic revamp of the US Open mixed doubles format reflects a broader sports entertainment trend aimed at maximizing viewer engagement. By implementing shortened scoring rules—such as four-game sets and 10-point match tie-breaks—organizers have streamlined the schedule to fit neatly into the week before the main singles draw, balancing exhibition-style entertainment with competitive readiness for returning stars.
The competition is scheduled to run from August 24 to 26, wrapping up just four days before the main singles tournament kicks off. For both Williams and Alcaraz, the event offers a competitive yet measured environment to sharpen their footwork, test their physical recovery, and find valuable match rhythm.
Source: BBC Sport
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