Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will be one of the headline attractions at this year’s US Open after entering the revamped mixed doubles championship as partners.
The 24-time Major winner and the women’s world no. 1 are among the star pairings announced for the event, which will again be staged during Fan Week before the start of the singles draw.
The partnership immediately became one of the biggest talking points ahead of the final Major event of the season. Novak will be chasing another memorable run in New York while Aryna hopes to add a mixed doubles crown to her already impressive resume.
The new mixed doubles format continues to attract many of the sport’s biggest singles stars, with more big names likely to be announced in the upcoming weeks.
The Serb and the Belarusian have developed a close relationship away from competition, making them one of the most intriguing duos in a star-studded draw.
A friendship that extends well beyond tennis
Djokovic and Sabalenka have shared plenty of memorable moments over the years. From exhibition events and practice sessions to playful exchanges during tournaments, the pair have often spoken higlhy of one another and clearly enjoy each other’s company.
Their connection has grown even stronger away from the court. Sabalenka’s fiance, enterpreneur Georgios Frangulis, and Djokovic are among the investors in French football club Le Mans FC.
That gives the two tennis stars another common bond beyond the ATP and WTA Tours. That familiarity could prove valuable in mixed doubles, where communication and chemistry often play an important role despite the shortened format.
A star pairing in a blockbuster field
The US Open revamped mixed doubles championship has once again attracted an impressive collection of elite singles players. Alongside Novak and Aryna, fans will see partnerships such as Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz, Naomi Osaka and Kei Nishikori.
Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori will chase another crown as well.
The mixed doubles event will take place from August 24-26, before the singles main draw. Six teams will qualify directly based on their combined singles rankings, while the remaining places will be filled through wild cards and qualifying.