US Open 2025: Emma Raducanu’s Push for Mixed Doubles Sparks Debate in Tennis

The 2025 US Open is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory—not only because of the intense singles competition, but also due to Emma Raducanu’s call for a greater focus on mixed doubles. The 2021 US Open champion has become a vocal advocate for giving mixed doubles more visibility, arguing that the format could reinvigorate fan engagement and highlight the inclusivity of tennis at the highest level.

This discussion comes at a pivotal time as grand slam organizers, players, and fans increasingly debate how to modernize tennis traditions while preserving the sport’s competitive integrity.

Raducanu’s Statement: A Call for Equality and Engagement

Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference in Flushing Meadows, Raducanu emphasized the importance of mixed doubles in creating a more dynamic tennis landscape. “Mixed doubles isn’t just an exhibition event—it’s a chance to showcase teamwork, adaptability, and chemistry between players,” she said.

Her comments followed a broader conversation in tennis about diversifying formats to compete with shorter, high-intensity sports popular among younger audiences. Raducanu believes that mixed doubles can serve as a bridge, drawing both traditional fans and new generations into the game.

A Look Back: Mixed Doubles in Grand Slam History

Mixed doubles has been a staple of the sport for decades, yet its presence often feels overshadowed by singles and men’s/women’s doubles. Historically, legends like Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King, and John McEnroe all played in the category, yet coverage remained limited.

The US Open itself has had iconic mixed doubles moments, including Jack Sock and Coco Vandeweghe’s 2018 victory, which attracted mainstream attention. However, viewership for these matches rarely compares to singles showdowns under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Statistical Trends: Declining Participation and Interest

Data compiled from the last five years of grand slam competition reveals telling statistics:

• Participation Rates: Entries for mixed doubles have dropped by nearly 18% since 2019.

• Viewership Metrics: Nielsen data from 2024 showed that fewer than 12% of US Open broadcast viewers tuned into mixed doubles matches.

• Fan Engagement: Online polls conducted during Wimbledon 2023 suggested that nearly 60% of fans felt mixed doubles was “undervalued” in the grand slam circuit.

Raducanu’s push, therefore, taps into a growing sentiment among fans and analysts who argue the format deserves more attention.

Grand Slam Reactions: Will the US Open Lead the Way?

The US Open tournament committee has already signaled openness to innovation, with sources confirming that organizers are discussing scheduling adjustments to bring mixed doubles matches into primetime slots.

A senior US Tennis Association (USTA) official, speaking anonymously, revealed that “there’s a serious push to test fan interest this year by placing at least one high-profile mixed doubles match on Ashe under the lights.”

If successful, the move could set a precedent for Wimbledon, Roland Garros, and even the Australian Open to follow suit.

Players’ Perspectives: Support and Skepticism

Raducanu isn’t alone in her stance. Fellow players such as Frances Tiafoe and Ons Jabeur have spoken out in favor of expanding the format. Tiafoe, known for his showmanship, stated: “Mixed doubles is fun, entertaining, and adds a different dimension to the sport. It should be more than just a side show.”

Yet, some remain skeptical. Critics argue that focusing too much on mixed doubles could dilute the prestige of singles competition, which remains the cornerstone of grand slam tennis. Novak Djokovic, when asked about Raducanu’s comments, acknowledged the appeal but stressed the importance of maintaining balance: “It’s a great format, but singles should remain the pinnacle. That’s what drives the sport financially and historically.”

Previewing the US Open 2025: Key Matches to Watch

While Raducanu’s advocacy is making headlines, the tournament itself promises blockbuster tennis across all draws. Among the standout storylines:

• Men’s Singles: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz enters the tournament as the favorite, with Jannik Sinner and Daniil Medvedev close contenders.

• Women’s Singles: Iga Świątek looks to reclaim dominance, while Raducanu herself eyes a deep run after her injury-plagued seasons.

• Mixed Doubles: With added attention, all eyes will be on pairings like Coco Gauff and Frances Tiafoe, who are expected to team up, creating one of the most marketable duos of the tournament.

Expert Commentary: The Psychology of Mixed Doubles

To further understand the significance of Raducanu’s call, sports psychologists highlight the unique mental challenges of mixed doubles. Dr. Karen Ellison, an entertainment and sports psychologist, explained:

“Unlike singles, mixed doubles requires heightened communication and adaptability. It forces players to rely on instinctual trust in their partner, which can build resilience and emotional intelligence—traits that benefit singles competition too.”

This perspective strengthens Raducanu’s argument that the format is not merely supplementary but essential to player growth.

The Bigger Picture: Streaming Wars and Fan Access

The push for mixed doubles also aligns with the realities of modern sports broadcasting. As networks and streaming platforms battle for exclusive rights, tennis must find ways to broaden its content appeal. Services like ESPN+ and Amazon Prime Video have already experimented with extended mixed doubles coverage, noting modest but growing audiences.

Industry analysts suggest that by 2027, mixed doubles could become a prime selling point for streaming packages, especially if younger stars like Raducanu and Gauff continue to champion the format.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Tennis Innovation

Emma Raducanu’s advocacy at the US Open 2025 may prove to be a turning point in how the sport approaches its underappreciated formats. With growing fan demand, potential scheduling changes, and heightened media interest, mixed doubles could emerge from the shadows into the main spotlight of grand slam tennis.

The coming weeks in New York will reveal whether this vision takes hold—or whether traditionalists will continue to dictate the future of the game.