The frustration of missing out on a significant championship is a major concern for those engaging in paired competitions.
Following Murray’s triumph in securing his third successive US Open combined title with Bethanie Mattek-Sands back in 2019, the duo commemorated their victory by consuming sparkling wine directly from their trophy while at JFK Airport.
Numerous participants in paired events, including Murray, suggest that this high-profile occasion could enhance the established combined format – however, it shouldn’t act as a replacement.
“I’m quite certain it will present an appealing showcase – though ultimately that’s exactly what it will be. I wouldn’t consider it akin to claiming a Grand Slam,” expressed Joe Salisbury of Britain, who, in partnership with Luisa Stefani from Brazil, advanced to the mixed doubles finale at Wimbledon just last month, in a statement to BBC Sport.
Another cause of unease lies in the insufficient dialogue.
Salisbury and Stefani have come to understand that the US Open didn’t confer with the players regarding these strategies; the players are represented by elected councils from both the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).
Pegula, a distinguished member of the WTA council, concurred that the USTA acted independently, adding: “If there had been input about the design, then the [response] might differ somewhat.”
“I’m fairly sure there would have been some opposition,” noted Stefani.
“Yet our perspectives wouldn’t have influenced the situation in any meaningful way. The choice has been made, and we must accept it.”
Amidst an already demanding schedule, the timing poses a further challenge, with various players participating in warm-up competitions before being required to swiftly travel to Flushing Meadows.
On Monday, Alcaraz, a five-time Grand Slam victor, emerged triumphant at the Cincinnati Open, remarking: “The timing isn’t ideal, as I’m playing tomorrow. Nevertheless, I appreciate the overall concept of the competition.
“I will likely be going to bed late, but I’ll strive to perform at my peak level to assist Emma [Raducanu] in securing the victory.”
As the commencement date nears, concerns regarding withdrawals have also surfaced, with Paula Badosa and Tommy Paul stepping back, along with Sinner’s original partner, Emma Navarro.
Sinner and his partner Katerina Siniakova withdrew on Tuesday following Sinner’s exit during the Cincinnati Open finale against Alcaraz on Monday due to sickness.
The duo were substituted by Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison, as their combined singles ranking was the highest among those who registered by Tuesday morning.
