Djokovic and Sabalenka Head Initial 16 for Revamped US Open Mixed Doubles
Novak Djokovic will partner with Aryna Sabalenka among the initial 16 teams entered in the revamped US Open mixed doubles. The event carries a $1 million prize and has attracted several high-profile names.
The entry list released ahead of the tournament features an eclectic mix of established doubles specialists and top singles players, highlighting the organisers' efforts to raise the profile of the mixed event. Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori return to defend their title, while other marquee entrants include Iga Swiatek, Casper Ruud and Naomi Osaka. The main draw will be played on August 25, giving the field a clear target date. Tournament officials have presented the revamped format and prize money as part of a wider push to increase interest in mixed doubles competition.
The pairing of Djokovic and Sabalenka leads the initial field and is among the most talked-about combinations, bringing together one of the men’s game’s greats with a powerful WTA star. Their inclusion underlines the event’s ability to attract crossover partnerships that mix top singles talent with doubles specialists. Organisers listed them at the top of the first 16 entries, signalling a high-profile start to the draw.
Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori are back in the hunt after their previous victory, aiming to replicate last year’s success. Their return provides continuity for the event amid the changes to format and prize distribution. The presence of the reigning champions on the entry list adds a storyline that ties the revamped edition to its immediate past.
Beyond those headline names, the entry sheet contains other notable singles stars, with Iga Swiatek, Casper Ruud and Naomi Osaka among the entrants. Their participation illustrates the blend of top-tier singles competitors joining the mixed doubles field. That mixture of participants is likely to shape interest and media attention as the main draw approaches.
With the main draw scheduled for August 25, attention will shift toward official seedings and the full draw announcement as the tournament nears. The $1 million prize has already garnered headlines and may influence pairings and player commitments. The initial 16 teams set the stage for what organisers hope will be a more prominent mixed doubles showcase.
The announcement of the first entries, headlined by Djokovic and Sabalenka, sets expectations for a competitive and widely watched mixed doubles event. The return of Errani and Vavassori alongside stars such as Swiatek, Ruud and Osaka ensures the revamped format will begin with a notable field when play starts on August 25.