US Open changes spark fan backlash over mixed doubles and extended schedule
ATP
The US Open has made significant changes for the 2025 tournament, expanding the event to 15 days and shifting the start from Monday to Sunday. These adjustments align the tournament with the Australian Open and French Open, leaving Wimbledon as the only Grand Slam still starting on a Monday.
While some fans welcome the extension, others have expressed frustration, particularly over the reduction of the mixed doubles draw from 32 teams to 16.
Does tennis need to evolve?
Tennis is a sport steeped in history and tradition, but in an era where less conventional sports like motorsport and darts have gained traction, there is an ongoing debate over whether tennis needs to adapt to stay relevant.
Even Novak Djokovic has questioned whether the sport is keeping up with the times, sharing his thoughts on the matter.
"I don't know. Yes and no. We have a history and tradition that we are proud of, which makes our sport different from other sports.
"Still, at the same time, I think we have been a little bit behind the other sports with changes and trying to keep pace with the evolution of society and the new generation that we all know doesn't have that much of a great attention span, and they want the movement."
Djokovic also noted that tennis has been slow to implement changes, though he praised the NextGen Finals for experimenting with new rules.
"Maybe not everything is ready to be implemented on the highest level, but I think certain changes are worthy of consideration."
Djokovic on entertainment changes at the US Open
Djokovic also suggested that the US Open could add more entertainment between sets to keep fans engaged.
"I think we should try to connect more with the younger people and bring them. I want to see a little bit more entertainment.
"For example, why wouldn't we consider doing something between the sets like the Super Bowl or, I don't know, the NBA?
"When there is a timeout, they have, you know, dancers come in and this and that. I wouldn't have a problem with that.
"Nice dancers, you know, there for a few minutes, more break so I can relax my nerves and think about something else.
"I feel like it would bring a more fun element and entertainment to the tennis that we know has been quite traditional and maybe conservative."
However, Djokovic also emphasised that he would not change much about Wimbledon, as its classic traditions make it unique.
"When we talk about conservative, we know Wimbledon is the most conservative. But, for example, with Wimbledon, I wouldn't change much.
"I would keep it as it is because it's so unique, all white and strawberries and cream, and everything about it is so elegant and classy.
"But all the others, US Open, I mean, in the USA, you guys know very well what entertainment is about. I'm up for it, just like gradual changes."
Fan backlash over mixed doubles changes
One of the most controversial aspects of the US Open’s changes is the reduction of the mixed doubles draw from 32 teams to 16, which has upset many fans.
Previously, the first round of the tournament was completed over two days, but with the new format, it will now be spread across three days, starting on Sunday.
While organisers believe the changes will attract more fans and allow players more recovery time, the mixed doubles reduction has sparked backlash, particularly regarding how entry spots are being allocated.
Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their disappointment:
"RIP Mixed doubles @ USO 1887-2024," one fan wrote. "Seriously, what's the thought behind this?"
"Mixed doubles based on singles ranking? You're disrespecting professional doubles players," another added.
"The qualifying week???? And this is doubles players' livelihood. When has it ever been based on singles rankings???? It just screams we only want big names," another fan reacted.
With these changes now confirmed, attention will be on how they impact the tournament. The extended schedule may allow for more ticket sales, and the format adjustments could benefit player recovery.
🦊🤝🏆 pic.twitter.com/VSSw55jWt2
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) January 26, 2025
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