The headline pairing of Serena Williams and Spain’s rising star Carlos Alcaraz has been confirmed for the mixed‑doubles draw at this year’s US Open, but the legendary American will not be entering the women’s singles bracket. Both athletes received a wildcard invitation, allowing them to compete together in the mixed‑doubles event while Alcaraz also returns to defend his men’s singles crown. Williams’ appearance marks her first competitive outing at Flushing Meadows since the 2022 tournament, where she was ousted in the third round by Croatia’s Ajla Tomljanović. After a lengthy hiatus from the professional circuit, the 23‑time Grand Slam champion made a brief comeback earlier this summer, playing singles at Wimbledon and partnering with her older sister Venus in the women’s doubles at the Cincinnati Open.
However, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) awarded the final women’s singles wildcard to Sofia Kenin, leaving Williams to focus exclusively on doubles play in New York. The mixed‑doubles partnership is not entirely new territory for Williams.
In 1998, she captured the mixed‑doubles title alongside Belarusian specialist Max Mirnyi, demonstrating her versatility across formats. This time, she will share the court with Alcaraz, the 2024 men’s singles champion who is eager to prove that his wrist injury, which sidelined him from competition since April, has fully healed. Alcaraz announced his intention to defend his title just weeks ago, adding extra excitement to the tournament’s narrative.
Commentators have speculated about Williams’ decision to skip singles. Jamie Murray, former world‑number‑one doubles player, told Sky Sports Tennis, “Serena obviously hasn’t played a singles match since Wimbledon, and I’m not sure if she feels physically ready to step back onto a singles court at this point.
She may simply prefer to enjoy the doubles format, especially the mixed‑doubles event, which is a fun, lower‑pressure environment.” Murray added that he had expected to see Williams participate in more matches during the US Open Series after Wimbledon, but the plan changed. The mixed‑doubles draw is set to commence on Tuesday, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents.
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will join four‑time US Open champion Novak Djokovic as a pair, while American Jessica Pegula will team up with fellow countryman Taylor Fritz after their original partners—Jack Draper and Elena Rybakina—withdrawn from the competition. These last‑minute changes highlight the fluid nature of mixed‑doubles entries, where players often adjust line‑ups based on health, scheduling, or strategic considerations. For fans looking to follow the action, the tournament is being broadcast across multiple platforms.
Sky Sports will provide live coverage of both the ATP and WTA tours, with the US Open itself airing from August 30 onward. Additionally, the streaming service NOW offers contract‑free access to matches, and the Sky Sports app delivers news, video highlights, and real‑time scores. Viewers are encouraged to use a Chrome browser for the most accessible video player experience. Beyond the on‑court drama, the mixed‑doubles event offers a unique showcase of teamwork and chemistry.
Unlike traditional doubles, mixed‑doubles pairs must navigate differences in playing style, power, and strategy that arise from gender dynamics. This often leads to creative shot selection, strategic poaching, and a greater emphasis on communication.
For Williams, who has already demonstrated her ability to adapt her game—whether she’s serving from the baseline or volleying at the net—partnering with Alcaraz presents an opportunity to blend her experience with his youthful agility. Alcaraz, at just 21 years old, has already amassed a remarkable résumé: a Grand Slam singles title, multiple Masters 1000 victories, and a reputation for relentless baseline aggression paired with exquisite touch. His decision to compete in mixed‑doubles reflects a growing trend among top singles players who use the format to fine‑tune specific aspects of their game, such as net play and reflexes, in a less physically demanding setting.
The partnership also serves a promotional purpose, drawing additional media attention to the mixed‑doubles draw, which historically receives less coverage than the singles events. The tournament’s schedule is packed, with the mixed‑doubles main draw beginning on Tuesday and progressing through the weekend.
As the competition unfolds, fans can expect close matches, surprising upsets, and moments of pure tennis artistry. Whether Williams and Alcaraz can translate their individual brilliance into a cohesive mixed‑doubles unit remains to be seen, but their presence alone adds a compelling storyline to an already star‑studded field. In summary, Serena Williams’ return to the US Open will be limited to the mixed‑doubles event alongside Carlos Alcaraz, while she forgoes a singles campaign after the USTA allocated the final women’s wildcard to Sofia Kenin. The mixed‑doubles draw features a mix of established champions and fresh pairings, with broadcasting options available via Sky Sports, NOW, and the Sky Sports app.
As the tournament kicks off, tennis enthusiasts worldwide will be watching closely to see how this high‑profile duo performs on the storied courts of Flushing Meadows.