As the US Open mixed doubles event returns on August 19–20 during the qualifying week, Taylor Fritz has made a striking decision by selecting Elena Rybakina as his partner instead of teaming with prominent American WTA players. This choice came into the spotlight among a field featuring nine of the top ten PIF ATP ranked players. Fritz’s decision highlights his personal preference and strategy rather than defaulting to national stars.

Fritz’s Enthusiasm for Mixed Doubles and Partnership Chemistry

In a recent video shared on X by the US Open’s official channel, Taylor Fritz expressed his genuine excitement about competing in mixed doubles. He remarked,

“I always enjoy playing mixed doubles,”

adding,

“I feel like I’ve been pretty, like, vocal about that I really like playing mixed doubles—like events where you get to play, you know, Olympics, United Cup, stuff like that. I’ve always been excited to play.”

Fritz emphasized that for him, mixed doubles offers more than just competition; it’s about the energy and chemistry on court, alongside the chance to engage in unique tennis experiences.

Timing and Previous Success with Rybakina Influence the Decision

With the US Open now scheduling mixed doubles at the start of the tournament week, Fritz viewed this as an ideal moment to participate. He pointed to a recent successful pairing with Rybakina during the Tie Break Tens event as a motivating factor:

“Where’s lining up in the year, I feel like it’s a great opportunity to finally get to play mixed doubles and then, you know, playing with Elena, I think it’s pretty self-explanatory. We won the Tie Break Tens,”

he noted. Adding,

“I thought she played great. So I wanted to lock up a really good partner early.”

His prompt decision signals the confidence he has in Rybakina’s capabilities and their combined potential on the court.

Elena Rybakina Shares Thoughts on Their Mixed Doubles Campaign

Elena Rybakina, bringing her calm and focused approach, expressed optimism about their partnership at the US Open. She said,

“He has such a good game that, I think it will be nice to, to play at the US Open,”

and reflected on the timing shift of the mixed doubles event:

“And especially now, it’s a little bit changed. And especially now it’s a little bit changed. It’s before singles starts. So I feel like it’s good, also preparation for the singles.”

Rybakina’s comments underline how playing mixed doubles could serve as valuable match practice ahead of her singles competition, blending preparation with competitive momentum.

The Significance of Fritz’s Partner Choice for the US Open

Taylor Fritz’s selection of Elena Rybakina over top American WTA stars is a notable move that speaks to his prioritization of partner compatibility and past successes over nationality. This decision reflects a contemplative approach amid a star-filled mixed doubles draw, and it could influence how other players approach partner selection going forward. As the tournament unfolds in New York, the duo’s performance will likely shed light on the merits of choosing synergy over ranking alone.

The upcoming US Open mixed doubles event brings together 16 elite pairs, featuring eight based on combined singles rankings and eight wildcards, creating a highly competitive atmosphere. With the schedule change positioning mixed doubles before singles, players like Fritz and Rybakina appear ready to capitalize on this adjustment, using the format as both a strategic and physical preparation tool for the grueling weeks ahead.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Did Taylor Fritz leave his wife?

A. He ended his marriage with Raquel Pedraza in December 2019 after they were together for three years. Fritz and Pedraza, who met in high school due to their shared interest in tennis, got married in 2016 in Rancho Santa Fe, California. Fritz had asked her to marry him during a trip to Paris, proposing under the Eiffel Tower.

Q. How old was Taylor Fritz when he had a child?

A. American tennis star Taylor Fritz became a dad to his son Jordan when he was still young. Jordan was born in 2017, and Fritz was only 19 at the time. Competing at Wimbledon, Fritz got married early, at 18, to his high school sweetheart Raquel Pedraza. The couple has since divorced.

Q. Why did Taylor Fritz leave Nike?

A. Fritz said that trusting your shoes is crucial. Whether sliding into a shot or playing a long match, it’s important that your feet don’t hurt afterward. He describes ASICS shoes as comfortable, flexible, and durable.