Day 1 of the US Open Mixed Doubles delivered a blend of intrigue, storylines, and statements. While there were no seismic upsets, the action made it clear that this event won’t just be a sideshow to the singles draws. In fact, several themes are already beginning to take shape.
US Open Mixed Doubles Day 1 Recap
Doubles Specialists Making Their Mark
One of the most refreshing narratives of the day came from the doubles specialists. Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori powered through to the semifinals, comfortably dismantling the No. 2 seeds along the way. Joining them is late alternate Christian Harrison, who has made the most of his opportunity by reaching the final four alongside Danielle Collins.
Despite being overlooked and neglected in this format, which has largely favored singles stars, all three doubles specialists remain alive heading into Championship Day, playing with a greater sense of purpose and proving that their craft deserves recognition on this stage.
Surprise Packages Shine Bright
The biggest surprise of the day was the success of two seeded teams, Jessica Pegula/Jack Draper and Iga Swiatek/Casper Ruud. Despite having very little time to practice together, due to either original partners withdrawing or a teammate arriving late to the tournament, both pairs have looked flawless so far, playing highly efficient doubles tennis.
Pegula and Draper’s win stood out the most, as they knocked out crowd favorites Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz in the most eye-catching first-round clash.
Now, with both duos advancing to the semifinals, they are raising the flag for tournaments to prioritize singles players by promoting formats like this. The two teams will face off in a highly anticipated semifinal tomorrow.
Big Names Stumble Early
But not every big name found such instantaneous results. Novak Djokovic, paired with Olga Danilovic, crashed out early in the tournament, showing that even for one of the greatest players of all time, nothing is guaranteed. Naomi Osaka, who teamed up with Gael Monfils, suffered a similar fate, losing their first match in straight sets.
The home pairing of Madison Keys and Frances Tiafoe also bowed out in disappointing fashion. Backed by an enthusiastic crowd that hoped to see a deep run from the American duo, they never quite found their rhythm and fell in their opening match, leaving fans wanting more.
Siniakova Left on the Sidelines
One storyline almost overshadowed the tennis itself. Katerina Siniakova, a former world No. 1 and one of the most decorated doubles players of her generation, was originally slated to partner Jannik Sinner. But with Sinner forced to withdraw due to illness after Cincinnati, Siniakova’s chance disappeared too.
Instead of being re-paired, she was replaced entirely. It’s a tough blow, especially given she skipped Cleveland to play this event. Her absence leaves a noticeable gap in the draw and raises questions about how much this event truly values doubles specialists.
Looking Ahead to Day 2
With the first wave complete, the event already feels more competitive and layered than anticipated. The doubles pros are fighting to be heard, the singles stars are flexing their muscles, and the tournament is showing that it has room for both storylines.
The hype has been like nothing ever seen for a mixed doubles event, with Arthur Ashe Stadium sold out and fan interaction both online and on-site peaking even before the singles tournament begins, something unheard of. Day two now has plenty to build on, and with semis already set, the margin for error is razor thin.
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran – USA TODAY Sports
