Full Breakdown
Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka headline the 2026 US Open mixed-doubles field
7/28/2026, 8:24:26 AM
Core Event – Headline pairing and entry list
World No. 1 women’s player Aryna Sabalenka and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic are the marquee duo for the US Open mixed-doubles championship in 2026. Their partnership was announced on July 27, 2026 alongside a 16-team entry list that includes Iga Swiatek / Casper Ruud, Elena Rybakina / Taylor Fritz, Naomi Osaka / Kei Nishikori, Jessica Pegula / Jack Draper, and defending champions Sara Errani / Andrea Vavassori. The competition runs August 24-26, with the main draw opening on August 25 at Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York.
Background & Context – Revamped format and prize incentives
The mixed-doubles event was overhauled in 2025 to attract top singles players. Changes include a reduced 16-team field, a standalone slot during “Fan Week,” and a new scoring system (first-to-four-games sets with a 10-point match tiebreak, expanding to traditional six-game sets in the final). Prize money was increased, though sources differ on the exact amount offered to the champions.
Data & Statistics
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Teams entered | 16 |
| Direct main-draw entries | Top six duos by combined singles ranking (deadline August 17) |
| Wild-cards | 8 |
| Qualifying spots | 2 (via an eight-team qualifying draw on August 24) |
| Competition dates | August 24-26 (main draw August 25-26) |
| Venue | Arthur Ashe Stadium & Louis Armstrong Stadium |
| Prize money (champions) | Reported as $1 million, $1.43 million, and $715 000 |
| Scoring format | Best-of-three sets; first two sets to four games, tiebreak at 4-all; 10-point match tiebreak instead of third set; final uses six-game sets with tiebreak at 6-all |
Official Statements & Responses
The USTA confirmed that the revamped format and increased prize pool are intended to draw “the biggest stars” and address previous criticism from doubles specialists.
Criticism & Opposition
Doubles specialists argue the 2025 overhaul limits opportunities for established pairs such as Errani / Vavassori. Player-pay negotiations have resurfaced: Sabalenka is identified as a vocal advocate for higher revenue-sharing, and analysts note the US Open could face boycott threats if demands are not met.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- The Hindu states the mixed-doubles champions will receive $1 million.
- Bleacher Report cites a $1.43 million prize for the winning pair.
These divergent figures illustrate a lack of publicly confirmed prize-money details.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Any time you can bring women and men together on the same team, you showcase tennis at its best. This is exactly what the mixed doubles championship does,” — USTA CEO Craig Tiley
What’s Next – Upcoming milestones
- August 17 – Entry window closes; top six teams secure direct main-draw spots.
- August 24-26 – Mixed-doubles competition takes place during US Open “Fan Week.”
