Jessica Pegula has openly expressed frustration towards the US Open organizers for their recent changes to the mixed doubles format that began in 2024. The adjustments aim to boost fan interest and sponsor engagement but have sidelined many mixed doubles specialist players, prompting widespread criticism from athletes involved. The new system notably limits entries based on combined singles rankings and wild cards, reducing the usual field size and excluding seasoned doubles players.
The tournament’s mixed doubles event now begins on August 19-20, prior to the singles matches starting on August 24. Prize money has increased to $1 million, but only 16 teams will compete, down from 32 last year. Instead of allowing specialists direct entry, half of the teams are selected by singles rankings while the other half receive wild cards, a decision that caused controversy among players like defending champion Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori.
Player Discontent and Reactions to the Format Changes
While the US Open has justified the revised format by emphasizing its potential to attract more fans and new competitors, criticism remains high. Prominent doubles players argue the update disrespects those who have relied on mixed doubles as a meaningful income source. Kristina Mladenovic, a former world No. 1 in doubles, revealed she was unable to secure a spot under the new qualifications.
During an interview with Tennis Channel, Pegula acknowledged that although the revamped format could entertain fans, excluding specialists is problematic. She highlighted the financial impact on doubles players who might miss out on prize money this year, saying:
“The fans will continue excitedly attending the matches, but something is not right when you have so many upset players saying they can’t play now, that can never be positive. There are many doubles players complaining that this was their way to make money, and now it has been taken away. Of course, it will be a very fun event, I have no doubt about that, but at the same time, I wish they had communicated a little better with us.”
—Jessica Pegula, Professional Tennis Player
As of now, the US Open has announced 14 of the 16 mixed doubles teams, which include a majority of top 10 singles players and nine Grand Slam singles champions. Many regular mixed doubles specialists have been excluded, raising questions about the competition’s future accessibility for dedicated doubles athletes.
New Partnerships and Player Responses to Lack of Consultation
The mixed doubles draw features notable partnerships, such as Emma Raducanu with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner teaming with Emma Navarro. Wimbledon winner Iga Swiatek will pair with Casper Ruud, while Paula Badosa replaced her initial partner Stefanos Tsitsipas with British player Jack Draper. Jessica Pegula, partnered with Tommy Paul, did secure entry but highlighted the lack of communication from tournament officials regarding the format shift.
Reflecting on the surprise among players about the change, Pegula said in the interview:
“We received the news with surprise, accepting that the US Open got sneaky to change the format without telling anyone; they just did it, without consultation. Have you talked to the players? Were you interested in their opinion to know how it could be better? This is a subject that we, as players, are trying to work on with them, making that line of communication closer.”
—Jessica Pegula, Professional Tennis Player
This admission underscores the tension between players and organizers, as many feel left out of important decisions that affect their careers. Pegula continues to compete actively, having recently reached the third round at the Cincinnati Open and preparing to face Magda Linette for a place in the fourth round, despite struggling to regain form following Wimbledon.
Broader Implications for Mixed Doubles Specialists and the Tournament
The overhaul of the mixed doubles format at the US Open reflects a broader challenge in balancing commercial interests with players’ needs. While the organizers seek to increase viewership and sponsorship revenues by including top singles stars, the exclusion of dedicated doubles players threatens the event’s traditional appeal and financial viability for these specialists. The dispute reveals potential fractures between players and governing bodies over transparency and fairness.
The coming years will reveal whether the new mixed doubles model can maintain its intended excitement and growth without sidelining the athletes who have long contributed to its success. For now, voices like Jessica Pegula’s call for better communication and respect toward doubles specialists, as the sport navigates evolving priorities and formats.