Novak Djokovic & Aryna Sabalenka Set to Team Up for 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles

The 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the tennis season, with Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka confirming their intention to play together in New York.

The superstar pairing headlines a star-studded entry list for the revamped mixed doubles tournament, which begins on 25 August ahead of the US Open singles main draw. After the success and global attention generated by last year's format, fans can once again look forward to seeing some of the biggest names in tennis competing side by side.

Djokovic and Sabalenka Form Dream Team

Twenty-five-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will join forces with world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in what is expected to be one of the tournament's most entertaining partnerships.

Both players are known for their powerful baseline games, competitive spirit, and ability to perform under pressure. Their combination immediately makes them one of the favorites for the title and has already created huge excitement among tennis fans.

Star Pairings Confirmed

Djokovic and Sabalenka are far from the only big names entering the event. Several top ATP and WTA stars have also announced their partnerships.

Some of the standout teams include:

• Jack Draper & Jessica Pegula – Reuniting after reaching the 2025 semi-finals.

• Iga Swiatek & Casper Ruud – Last year's runners-up looking to go one step further.

• Naomi Osaka & Kei Nishikori – An exciting all-Japanese partnership.

• Taylor Fritz & Elena Rybakina – A powerful combination capable of challenging anyone.

• Mirra Andreeva & Andrey Rublev – The Russian duo hoping to make a deep run.

• Henry Patten & Katerina Siniakova – Two of the world's leading doubles specialists.

With so many elite players involved, the 2026 edition promises to deliver high-quality tennis and plenty of memorable moments.

Alcaraz and Sinner Missing

Notably absent from the entry list are Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, currently the two biggest stars in men's tennis.

Alcaraz, who partnered Emma Raducanu in last year's event, is continuing his recovery from a wrist injury and has not yet confirmed when he will return to competition.

Meanwhile, Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner has also skipped the mixed doubles event as he focuses on managing his schedule and preparing for the remainder of the hard-court season.

Their absence opens the door for other teams to compete for the prestigious title.

Serena Williams Still a Possibility

Although Serena Williams has not been included in the first wave of entries, fans should not rule out another appearance.

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion returned to professional tennis earlier this year but suffered a knee injury that forced her to miss a planned doubles appearance with her sister Venus Williams.

Tournament organizers still have wildcard selections available, meaning Serena could yet make a surprise appearance if she recovers in time.

How the Tournament Works

The revamped mixed doubles format continues for 2026.

After entries close on 17 August, the six highest-ranked teams based on combined singles rankings will automatically qualify.

The remaining places will be filled through:

• Eight wildcard entries

• Two teams advancing from qualifying, which takes place on 24 August

The tournament itself will begin on 25 August, just before the singles competition gets underway.

Doubles Specialists Ready to Defend Their Title

Defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori are also expected to return after winning the inaugural edition of the revamped event.

Their victory last year was especially significant after many doubles players criticized the new format for focusing heavily on singles stars. Despite the controversy, the Italian pair proved that experienced doubles specialists could still compete with the sport's biggest names.

They will once again attempt to defend their title against one of the strongest mixed doubles fields ever assembled.

Why the Event Continues to Grow

The US Open's decision to reinvent mixed doubles initially divided opinion across the tennis world. However, the new format attracted packed crowds, increased media attention, and significant commercial success.

With superstar partnerships, shorter and more entertaining matches, and substantial prize money, the event has become one of the highlights of the opening week in New York.

This year's lineup suggests the concept has been embraced by many of the world's biggest players, making the 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles one of the most anticipated events of the tennis calendar.

Final Thoughts

The partnership between Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka headlines an incredible field for the 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles Championship. While the absence of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner is notable, the tournament still features an impressive collection of Grand Slam champions and world-class talent.

With dream pairings, exciting matchups, and an electric atmosphere expected in New York, tennis fans have every reason to be excited as the US Open approaches.