American tennis player Emma Navarro has withdrawn from the 2025 US Open mixed doubles event, prompting a last-minute change in the tournament’s pairings. Navarro was initially set to compete alongside ATP World No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam winner Jannik Sinner. However, her unexpected withdrawal left Sinner without a partner just before the competition began.
Katerina Siniakova Steps In to Partner with Jannik Sinner
Katerina Siniakova, the World No. 2 doubles specialist and multiple Grand Slam champion, was uncertain about her participation in the mixed doubles draw until recently. Initially omitted from the fan week announcements, Siniakova expressed cautious expectations, admitting,
I mean, I wouldn’t be surprised if I won’t get it, actually. So yeah, I just keep it like this.
—Katerina Siniakova, WTA doubles star
Her status changed when organizers confirmed her entry into the mixed doubles tournament, pairing her with Jannik Sinner. This unexpected collaboration formed after Navarro’s withdrawal and just before the start of the event in New York.
Opening Match and Initial Challenges
Sinner and Siniakova will face a challenging first-round match at the Louis Armstrong Stadium against a strong duo comprising Alexander Zverev and Belinda Bencic. Both opponents are experienced and have proven themselves in major tournaments, ensuring a highly competitive opening encounter.
Significance and Potential Impact on the Tournament
This late partnership adjustment could add a strategic edge to the mixed doubles competition at the US Open. Siniakova’s expertise in doubles combined with Sinner’s top-level singles experience might create a formidable team despite their recent formation. Their performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike as they aim to make an impact in what is traditionally a highly unpredictable category.
With the event underway, the new pairing will test their synergy on court and strive to advance in a field featuring some of the best doubles and singles players worldwide. This development highlights the fluid nature of tennis doubles draws, where last-minute changes can reset expectations for teams and spectators.