The final Grand Slam of the year is set to maintain its revamped mixed doubles format, mirroring the structure that successfully debuted last season. The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has officially announced the first 16 pairs participating in the mixed doubles event at Flushing Meadows, showcasing a star-studded field that unites some of the biggest names in professional tennis.
Headlining the initial list is the blockbuster pairing of world number one Aryna Sabalenka and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. The high-profile duo immediately emerges as a primary contender for the championship title.
Revamped Format Drives Increased Star Power And Stakes
The mixed doubles competition underwent a significant overhaul in 2025, specifically restructured to attract top ATP and WTA singles stars. The updated framework yielded immediate success, creating a major draw for fans and elevating the prestige of the discipline. Adding to the competitive intensity, organizers maintained the lucrative $1 million prize purse reserved exclusively for the winning team.
Alongside Sabalenka and Djokovic, the entry list features several compelling rivalries and pairings. Roland Garros champion Iga Swiatek is set to reunite with Casper Ruud as they look to build upon their runner-up finish from last season. American star Jessica Pegula will team up with Jack Draper, while Alexander Zverev partners with doubles specialist Taylor Townsend.
Other notable combinations include Daniil Medvedev alongside Diana Shnaider, and Mirra Andreeva playing with fellow compatriot Andrey Rublev. Meanwhile, defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori will return to New York aiming to protect their crown against the elite field.
Milestone Debuts And Farewell Appearances
The tournament will also mark a major personal milestone for Filipino standout Alexandra Eala. Making her official debut in the event, the Southeast Asian star will partner with Felix Auger-Aliassime, forming an intriguing combination capable of disrupting the draw.
Fans can also look forward to dynamic standard pairings, such as Leylah Fernandez teaming with Frances Tiafoe, and a sibling dynamic as Peyton Stearns competes alongside her brother Preston Stearns. Elsewhere, Amanda Anisimova joins forces with Learner Tien in a fresh team configuration.
Adding emotional weight to the competition is Japanese veteran Kei Nishikori. Set to retire at the end of the 2026 season, Nishikori will compete in the US Open mixed doubles draw for the very first time, partnering with compatriot and multi-Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka. USTA CEO Craig Tiley emphasized that uniting world-class male and female athletes on a single court serves as an extraordinary platform to showcase tennis at its absolute peak.
Wildcard Invitations Keep Wildcard Hopes Alive
With 16 teams officially locked into the field, tournament organizers confirmed that eight additional wildcard entries will be awarded prior to the start of competition.
The remaining slots leave open the tantalizing possibility of further high-profile additions, keeping fans hopeful for a potential appearance by Spanish superstar Carlos Alcaraz. Speculation had previously surfaced suggesting Alcaraz might team up with legend Serena Williams, who made an unexpected return to professional competition during the grass-court swing. While neither player appeared on the initial registration list, the remaining wildcards ensure that the prospect of a marquee "super duo" at Flushing Meadows remains alive.