The US Open’s recent overhaul of the mixed doubles format, announced earlier this year, ignited a heated debate among tennis professionals and fans alike. The tournament scaled back to just 16 teams from the usual 32, condensing the event into two days and instituting matches as best-of-three sets with each set capped at four games. Despite initial skepticism and criticism from former champions and commentators, including Rennae Stubbs who labeled it an exhibition, last year’s victors Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori competed with determination and claimed the title, sparking fresh discussions about the format’s future.
Errani and Vavassori won the final against Casper Ruud and Iga Swiatek in a tightly contested match, finishing 6–3, 5–7, 10–6. The Italians’ dominance was evident throughout, losing only one set en route to their $1 million prize. Their successful campaign began with a commanding victory over Taylor Fritz and Elena Rybakina, underscoring their commitment amid the format controversy.
The Champions’ Perspective and John McEnroe’s Approval
After their triumph, Vavassori revealed what fueled his motivation and made the win particularly meaningful.
I was speaking with John McEnroe in the locker room. He said to me for me was really important for him to come to me and say, ‘You’re doing something good for doubles’. So I think it will be really important in the future to know that it’s a product that can grow. With better marketing can become something better,
he told reporters. This interaction highlighted McEnroe’s lingering influence and interest in the evolution of doubles tennis.
Despite the changes stirring dissent, veteran players showed respect for the winners. Rajeev Ram, a former world No. 1 and six-time doubles Grand Slam champion, praised them warmly:
Full credit to #Errani and #Vavassori. I’m sure it wasn’t easy to be the overwhelming favourites in this event and then get the job done. Forza!
His comment reflected the esteem held for doubles specialists, even amid ongoing disagreements about the event’s structure.
Mixed Doubles Format Sparks Ongoing Discontent Among Players
The decision to modify the mixed doubles event was met with widespread criticism from the doubles community. Many players felt marginalized as top doubles teams were forced to compete for limited wildcard spots, while high-profile singles players entered automatically. The controversy even caught the attention of John McEnroe, who weighed in on the broader implications. Wimbledon doubles champion Julian Cash also voiced support for the champions by sharing their celebrations on social media, sending a message of solidarity during a tumultuous period for doubles tennis.
John McEnroe Reflects on US Open’s Renovation and His Legacy
Earlier in the year, McEnroe openly expressed mixed emotions about the US Open’s $800 million facility improvements during a Manhattan press event. The legendary player, who secured four singles and four doubles titles at the Open, spoke candidly about his connection to the tournament and city.
I’m a New Yorker, and I played some of the most memorable matches of my life at the Open,
he shared alongside tennis figures including Brian Vahaly, Kim Clijsters, and others.
I fed off the energy there—for better and sometimes for worse. So when I see something like this…there’s a twinge of jealousy and envy, but also pride.
McEnroe reminisced humorously about past traditions at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, noting,
New York City is the greatest city in the world—go Knicks!—so it only makes sense, but [when I played there as a pro] we used to have beer kegs in the men’s locker room…I mean, it wasn’t all bad. We thought that was recovery.
These anecdotes contrast with the modern upgrades, which include a four-story Player Performance Center equipped with lounges, indoor-outdoor training areas, and expanded amenities for athletes.
The Stakes for Doubles Tennis Moving Forward
As the US Open prepares for its main singles and doubles draws under this new atmosphere, the spotlight remains firmly on how these changes affect the integrity and appeal of doubles events. The mixed doubles format, while streamlined, has left many wondering if it enhances the sport or diminishes its traditional values. With its rapid schedule and reduced field, critics argue the event lacks the gravitas of previous years.
However, the champions’ on-court performances and McEnroe’s endorsement offer a hopeful narrative. Their comments suggest that with improved marketing and support, doubles tennis could grow in popularity and prestige. The $1 million prize purse signals a commitment to maintaining incentive for players, but the balance between tradition and innovation will need careful management as the sport evolves.
What Lies Ahead for the US Open and Its Doubles Competition
With the mixed doubles event concluded, the US Open’s primary draws will soon unfold amid heightened anticipation and change. The revamped stadium and new player facilities promise to elevate the overall tournament experience. Yet the discussions ignited by the mixed doubles format changes underscore persistent tensions between honoring tennis heritage and embracing modernization.
John McEnroe’s voice remains a beacon in this debate, as his storied history at the Open lends weight to his observations and hopes. As the season’s final Grand Slam looms, fans and players alike watch closely to see whether these innovations serve to enhance the sport’s excitement or provoke further controversy among tennis’s dedicated community.