Changes in the mixed competition
“A joke”: German tennis ace acidic about new mode
25.06.2025 – 8:30 a.m.Reading time: 1 min.
Reduced field of participants, new rules: the mixed at the US Open is rebuilt – not everyone is enthusiastic.
The new format for the mixed competition at the US Open leads to significant resentment-also at Laura Siegemund. “I have no understanding at all,” said the 37-year-old at the tournament in Bad Homburg. “Mixed is a great competition. That shouldn’t be degraded into such a show event.”
The competition will be held for the first time this year during the week before the actual Grand Slam start-on August 19 and 20. The number of pairings is reduced from 32 to 16, the sentences shorten to the final. The prize money increases to a million US dollars. Eight starting places are awarded via the individual world rankings, eight via wildcards. Alexander Zverev is to compete with the Swiss Belinda Bencic.
Siegemund, former Mixed winner in New York, criticized that double specialists like them have bad prospects for participation. “Then I don’t get a chance to play. That’s a joke,” she scolded. She thinks it’s a shame that the previous mixed professionals would not be included in any way. Double specialists are taken the chance to “earn their bread”.
Iga świątek also commented on the new format. “I also understand that there are many players who are frustrated by this decision,” said the former world ranking. At the same time, she explained: “I think the competition will entertain and provide fun.”