Pegula urges better communication over controversial U.S. Open Mixed doubles format

CINCINNATI: World number four Jessica Pegula has called for improved dialogue between players and organisers following the U.S. Open’s decision to revamp its mixed doubles event. The tournament’s new format, set to take place from August 19-20 ahead of the singles main draw, has drawn criticism despite its potential to attract significant fan interest.

The overhauled competition will feature just 16 teams—down from 32 last year—with entries split between combined singles rankings and wild cards. The format includes shortened sets, no-advantage scoring, and a 10-point tiebreak in lieu of a full third set. Only the final will follow a traditional best-of-three format to six games.

While Pegula, a member of the WTA Player Council, acknowledged the entertainment value of the changes, she stressed the importance of player input in such decisions.

“I’m honoured that they asked me to play. It’s going to be great, it’s going to be fun and the fans will really enjoy it,” she said during the Cincinnati Open. “But I do think there needs to be better communication with the players before making major changes.”

The new format has already faced criticism from doubles specialists, including reigning champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, who labelled the decision a “profound injustice.”(Reuters)