Raducanu, Alcaraz Confirmed for Star-Studded US Open Mixed Doubles

Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu have confirmed their participation in the US Open mixed doubles tournament as wildcard entrants, dispelling rumors of their withdrawal amid Alcaraz's recent muscle injury and Raducanu's focus on singles. Their partnership, along with other notable teams such as Jack Draper with Paula Badosa—who shifted from her original pairing with Stefanos Tsitsipas—adds excitement to the event, scheduled for August 19-20 before the main tournament. The mixed doubles competition features 16 pairs, including direct entries like Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams making a comeback at age 45, with a $1 million prize for the winners. The tournament format includes shorter sets of four games, aiming to deliver high-energy matches and attract top singles players into doubles play. This revamped event has faced some controversy due to its standalone scheduling ahead of the main US Open, but the lineup boasts multiple top-10 singles players and Grand Slam champions, promising a competitive and star-studded field. Fans and analysts are eagerly anticipating how last-minute team changes and the tournament's unique format will influence the dynamics and outcomes of this new mixed doubles spectacle.