THE US Open mixed doubles will take place the week BEFORE the singles tournament starts at Flushing Meadows – and carry a $1million (£804,000) cheque.
In a “groundbreaking innovation”, the event will be staged during the fan week in the New York borough of Queen’s.
Mixed doubles will no longer be staged during the main draw of the singles play.
It means the Grand Slam will be essentially spread over three weeks – different from the other three majors.
And in an attempt “to elevate focus” on mixed doubles, the prize pot has been bumped up for the winning team.
Britain’s Jamie Murray is three-time winner of the US Open mixed doubles title.
While Joe Salisbury won it with American partner Desirae Krawczyk in 2021.
American world No.5 Jessica Pegula said: “As a player who enjoys competing in doubles, I’m excited for the opportunity to play the US Open mixed doubles championship during the first week.
“I appreciate the importance of innovation and exploring new ways to engage more fans and grow our sport.”
Californian Taylor Fritz, the world No.4, added: “Mixed doubles is always a great challenge, and I’ve had some amazing experiences with it over the years.
“From the Olympics to the United Cup, and even the US Open Mixed Madness last year.
“I’m definitely looking forward to the chance to compete for a Grand Slam title in the future.”
The new-look format will also look a little different on the court.
This year’s mixed doubles competition runs from August 19 to August 20, with 16 teams set to play.
Early round matches will be best-of-three sets played to just four games, with a deciding point played at deuce.
Only the final will feature a traditional best-of-three sets played to six games, as is usually the case in a Grand Slam.
Tennis stars following in parents’ footsteps
TALK about pressure…
These rising stars are all making their way in tennis.
But they have got something in common – they’ve got a famous parent who also made their name in the sport.
So who are the players hoping to follow in the footsteps of their tennis mums and dads?
Lew Sherr, CEO of the US Tennis Association, said: “The reason behind this is to appeal to more fans and grow the fan base around the world.
“But the way to do that is to have the biggest names in the sport participating in doubles, and to showcase them teaming up and playing in a different format, we think is exciting.
“In fact, we know it’s exciting.”
“By giving the competition its own spotlight we’re elevating mixed doubles to put an even greater focus on the incredible talent we have across the sport.
“We’re working closely with top players, many of whom are eager to be part of this historic change.”
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