Zverev and Sinner‘s Health Concerns Cast Shadow Over US Open Mixed Doubles
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August 19, 2025, 10:17 a.m.
Cincinnati,OH – Concerns are mounting regarding the physical well-being of Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner as both players grapple wiht exhaustion ahead of their scheduled appearance in the US Open mixed doubles competition. The situation highlights growing debate surrounding the demands placed on elite athletes and the revamped mixed doubles format.
physical Strain and Speedy Turnaround
jannik Sinner recently conceded defeat in the final of the ATP Masters 1000 in Cincinnati against Carlos Alcaraz, losing 0-5 due to physical limitations. Despite this setback, Sinner is slated to compete in the mixed doubles event at the US Open, partnering with Czech player Katerina Siniakova. Their first match is scheduled for Tuesday against Alexander Zverev and Belinda Bencic.
Zverev also experienced physical strain during the Cincinnati tournament, falling short against Alcaraz in the semi-finals. He reported feeling weak and unable to maintain his usual intensity.Despite these challenges, both players are expected to participate in the mixed doubles competition, a decision that has sparked criticism.
Did You Know? The US Open mixed doubles event was reformed in 2024, shifting its place in the schedule and altering the competition format to attract more prominent players.
Criticism of the mixed Doubles Format
Laura Siegemund, the 2016 mixed doubles champion at the US Open, has voiced strong objections to the changes made to the competition. She argues that the event has been reduced to a “show event” with a counting system that relies heavily on luck.Siegemund criticized the USTA’s decision to award wildcards to players with lower rankings, such as 45-year-old venus Williams (currently ranked 577th), while overlooking established doubles specialists.
The USTA has restructured the mixed doubles tournament, moving it to the week preceding the individual competitions and shortening the sets. This new format requires players to potentially compete in two matches per day. Siegemund expressed frustration that professionals for whom the mixed competition was designed where “simply ignored.”
Increased Prize Money and Star Power
The USTA’s changes are partially motivated by a desire to attract top players and increase revenue. The inclusion of prominent names like Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, and Naomi Osaka is expected to draw larger crowds and boost ticket sales. The prize money for the mixed doubles event has also been considerably increased.
While temperatures in New York are currently moderate, the demanding schedule remains a concern. The individual competitions begin on Sunday, placing additional pressure on players participating in both events. Is it strategically sound to prioritize a ”show event” over the more prestigious individual competitions?
Tournament Schedule and Format
| Event | Dates | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed Doubles | August 24 – August 26 | Shortened sets, up to two matches per day |
| Individual Competitions | August 25 – September 8 | Standard grand Slam format |
Pro Tip: Players should prioritize recovery and strategic scheduling to avoid burnout during the US Open, especially with the condensed mixed doubles format.
Player perspectives and Future Concerns
Sinner acknowledged his physical state,stating,”At the moment relaxation is the most vital thing.” He intends to rest for a few days before resuming training in preparation for defending his US Open title. However, he remained noncommittal about his participation in the mixed doubles event.
The situation raises broader questions about the sustainability of the current tennis schedule and the potential for player burnout. According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, elite tennis players are at a high risk of overuse injuries due to the demanding travel and competition schedule [https://bjsm.bmj.com/]. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has been exploring potential calendar reforms to address these concerns [https://www.itftennis.com/].
Will Zverev and Sinner ultimately compete in the mixed doubles event, and what impact will their participation have on their performance in the individual competitions?
The debate surrounding player workload in professional tennis is ongoing. The increasing demands of the sport, coupled with the desire to maximize revenue, create a challenging habitat for athletes. The US Open’s mixed doubles format changes represent a broader trend towards prioritizing entertainment value alongside athletic competition. Looking ahead, it will be crucial for governing bodies to find a balance between these competing interests to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new format for the US Open mixed doubles competition? The tournament now takes place the week before the individual competitions, with shortened sets and the possibility of playing two matches in one day.
- Why is the US Open mixed doubles format being changed? The USTA aims to attract more top players and increase spectator attendance by offering higher prize money and a more prominent schedule.
- are Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner confirmed to play in the mixed doubles? Both players are currently scheduled to participate, but their physical condition may affect their decision.
- What are the concerns regarding player health? Both Zverev and Sinner have recently experienced physical exhaustion,raising concerns about their ability to compete effectively in multiple events.
- Who is Laura Siegemund and why is she critical of the changes? Siegemund is a former mixed doubles champion who believes the event has been degraded into a “show event” and that established doubles players have been overlooked.
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