Novak Djokovic and Belarusian powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka have announced that they will join forces for the mixed‑doubles competition at this year’s US Open. The pairing brings together the world‑number‑one woman in the women’s game and a 24‑time Grand Slam champion on the men’s side, creating a marquee team that is expected to draw considerable attention from fans and media alike. Both athletes have a rich history of success at Flushing Meadows. Between them, they have captured six singles titles on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium, a venue that has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in modern tennis.
Their decision to compete together in the mixed‑doubles draw adds another layer of intrigue to a tournament that already boasts a deep field of talent. The mixed‑doubles event, which was dominated by the Italian duo Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori in the past two editions (2024 and 2025), will now feature a new storyline as Djokovic and Sabalenka aim to claim the coveted New York silverware when the competition kicks off on August 30. The mixed‑doubles draw also includes several other high‑profile pairings.
Norway’s Casper Ruud and Poland’s Iga Świątek, who fell to Errani and Vavassori in last year’s final, are among the headline teams. World No. 2 Elena Rybakina will partner with American star Taylor Fritz, creating a formidable side that could challenge for the title.
Britain’s rising talent Jack Draper is set to continue his partnership with U.S. player Jessica Pegula, while Japanese legends Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori will form a home‑grown duo that promises to excite local supporters. In a second wave of announcements released a week later, the tournament highlighted a romantic theme by confirming two married couples as participants. Newlyweds Katie Boulter of Great Britain and Alex de Minaur of Australia will take the court together, and Ukrainian veteran Elina Svitolina will partner with her husband, French‑American player Gaël Monfils, who has announced his retirement at the close of the season.
These pairings underscore the mixed‑doubles format’s unique ability to blend personal narratives with high‑level competition. The event also features a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents. Venus Williams was named alongside the flamboyant Kazakhstani player Alexander Bublik, adding further star power. However, Serena Williams, who returned to competitive play earlier this summer, has not yet been placed in a mixed‑doubles team.
Likewise, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, both listed on the singles entry list, are currently absent from the doubles pairings, leaving fans to wonder if they might join later. USTA CEO Craig Tiley emphasized the significance of the mixed‑doubles format, stating, “Any time you can bring men and women together on the same team, you showcase tennis at its best.” He added that the tournament is proud to assemble the world’s top players in a setting that promises “exciting entertainment for our fans.” Tiley further highlighted the championship as an innovation designed to attract new audiences and give spectators additional opportunities to watch the sport’s biggest stars compete side‑by‑side. For viewers, the US Open will be broadcast live on Sky Sports starting August 30, with streaming options available through the NOW platform and the Sky Sports app. Sky Sports customers will enjoy more than 50 percent additional live sport coverage this year at no extra charge, ensuring that tennis enthusiasts can follow every twist and turn of the mixed‑doubles competition as well as the main ATP and WTA events.
Beyond the headline pairings, the mixed‑doubles field offers a fascinating blend of playing styles. Djokovic’s unparalleled defensive skills, relentless baseline consistency, and tactical acumen complement Sabalenka’s powerful groundstrokes and aggressive mindset. Their combined experience in high‑pressure Grand Slam finals could prove decisive in close matches, especially in the fast‑paced, often unpredictable mixed‑doubles format where quick reflexes at the net and seamless communication are paramount. The tournament’s schedule also provides ample opportunity for fans to engage with the sport beyond the matches themselves.
Sky Sports encourages followers to stay updated via their WhatsApp channel, which delivers the latest news, video highlights, in‑depth analysis, and exclusive features. Additionally, the US Open’s official website offers an A‑Z guide to tennis terminology, helping newcomers understand the nuances of the game, as well as a comprehensive list of scores, results, and upcoming fixtures.
As the mixed‑doubles draw unfolds, all eyes will be on Djokovic and Sabalenka to see whether their combined pedigree can translate into a title. Their participation not only raises the competitive bar but also showcases the growing popularity of mixed‑doubles as a platform where the sport’s elite can collaborate in a unique and entertaining format. Whether they capture the trophy or fall short, their involvement guarantees heightened interest and adds a compelling chapter to this year’s US Open narrative.