Djokovic and Sabalenka Join Forces for US Open Mixed Doubles

Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka are set to compete together in the mixed doubles event at the upcoming US Open. This partnership comes as part of a controversial format change introduced last year, which aims to feature high-profile pairings in the tournament.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion from Serbia, and Belarusian star Sabalenka, currently ranked as the WTA world number one, will join forces for the two-day event beginning on August 25 in New York. Other notable pairings include former British number one Jack Draper with American Jessica Pegula, and last year's runners-up Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, who will also reunite.

Despite earlier concerns that some top players might boycott the event to demand a larger share of Grand Slam revenues, several prominent athletes, including Sabalenka, Swiatek, and Pegula, have confirmed their participation. However, leading male players Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have opted out, with Alcaraz still recovering from a wrist injury and Sinner prioritizing his health after a recent major victory.

The entry window for the tournament will close on August 17, with the six teams boasting the best combined singles rankings gaining direct entry into the main draw. Additionally, eight wildcard spots will be available, along with two places determined by a qualifying round on August 24.

Last year's mixed doubles event faced criticism for featuring only one team of dedicated doubles specialists, which has prompted discussions regarding the future of the format. The defending champions, Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, will return to defend their title, while British doubles number one Henry Patten has teamed up with Czech player Katerina Siniakova for the upcoming competition.