The Italian team of Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori have achieved a remarkable feat by winning the mixed doubles title at the US Open for the second consecutive year. The tournament featured a restructured format that included only 16 pairings over two days in Flushing Meadows, with the defending champions eager to demonstrate the unique talents of doubles specialists amidst a field filled with prominent singles players like Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka.
In a thrilling final, Errani and Vavassori triumphed over esteemed competitors Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud, sealing the match with a score of 6-3, 5-7, (10-6). Following the match, Świątek acknowledged their tactical superiority, emphasizing the competitive spirit displayed by all participants. Each finalist appreciated the event organizers for introducing a fresh format that attracted more viewers and enhanced the atmosphere.
Vavassori expressed hope that this year’s tournament would increase marketing and visibility for doubles, especially with prize money set to rise significantly from $200,000 to $1 million by 2025. The match unfolded in front of a vibrant crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where a pivotal moment saw Vavassori serve for the match only to lose the lead, resulting in a tense tiebreak scenario. Starting with an early 4-0 lead, they faced a comeback effort from their opponents but ultimately secured victory with a powerful forehand to clinch the title.
Emotional celebrations followed, particularly for Errani, who shed tears as she marked her ninth grand slam doubles title. The final extended into late hours, but the energy of the audience remained undeterred. Errani thanked the crowd for their enduring support, acknowledging how special it was to perform for such an engaged audience.
In contrast to the excitement of the mixed doubles final, persistent rain halted all singles qualifying matches in New York, leaving players frustrated as conditions failed to improve throughout the day. Only a few matches saw minimal playing time, with Australian teen Emerson Jones and fellow countrywoman Astra Sharma in commanding positions when play was suspended, ready to resume their contests once the weather allowed.
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