With the US Open mixed doubles competition set to take place from August 19 to 20, anticipation has grown around the lineup of 16 teams vying for the Grand Slam title. Although many top players are set to compete, Coco Gauff, a prominent Grand Slam singles and doubles champion, will not participate in the mixed doubles this year. Gauff has publicly shared her reasons for this decision ahead of the event.

Reasons Behind Gauff’s Decision

Coco Gauff explained that the mixed doubles timing conflicts with the US Open fan week, a rare pause in competition before the main singles and doubles draw begins on August 24. During this week, she has important sponsor commitments that require her attention. Additionally, Gauff, known for her strong competitive drive, revealed that the mental strain of participating might leave her disappointed if she does not perform well, which she wants to avoid before the crucial phases of the tournament.

Gauff’s Recent Success and Tournament Context

Gauff’s track record highlights her talent, having secured her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open. She further demonstrated her prowess by winning the 2025 French Open singles championship, as well as the 2024 French Open doubles title alongside Katerina Siniakova. These accomplishments establish her as a top contender across surfaces and formats.

Impact and Dynamics of the Mixed Doubles Event

The US Open mixed doubles is not only a test of skill but also involves managing limited preparation time, as the competition unfolds over just two days. For some players, it offers a valuable opportunity to adjust to the courts prior to the main draw, acting as an alternative to regular practice. However, for highly competitive athletes like Gauff, the energy expenditure can be a disadvantage before their primary events.

The tournament also holds intrigue for spectators, particularly whether any player can capture both a mixed doubles and a singles title in the same year, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.