(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Thanasi Kokkinakis Questions New US Open Mixed Doubles Format
Australian tennis star Thanasi Kokkinakis has openly criticized the revamped US Open mixed doubles format, calling it “weird” and suggesting it shouldn’t carry the label of a Grand Slam event.
This year’s edition introduced several changes: only 16 pairs competed, most of them top singles players, and the Fast4 format was used – with matches decided in short sets (first to four games). The champions also received a record $1 million prize, a significant increase from last year’s payout.
Speaking on a podcast hosted by the Australian Open, Kokkinakis admitted:
“The only weird thing is calling it a ‘Grand Slam’ when you’re winning matches 4–2, 4–2. That doesn’t quite feel right to me. Maybe I’m bitter because my mixed record is 0–10 (laughs).”
Mixed Reaction Among Players
Not all players are happy with the shift. Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, who won the title in 2024, voiced their concerns about the new format. Ironically, the pair benefited from a wildcard this year and went on to defend their crown, defeating Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud in the final.
Kokkinakis added that while mixed doubles is not usually a career focus for players, it can become a valuable opportunity later on:
“No one picks up a racket as a kid and says, ‘I want to be the best doubles player in the world.’ But it’s a good way to make money later in your career.”
Key Takeaway
The debate around the US Open’s new mixed doubles setup highlights the tension between tradition and innovation in tennis. While the shorter matches and bigger prize money may boost fan interest, questions remain over whether it should still be recognized as a Grand Slam title.
