NEW YORK — World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka has playfully accused an unnamed male tennis player of "non-stop begging" her to partner in mixed doubles at the upcoming US Open. The Belarusian star confirmed her participation while revealing the amusing behind-the-scenes persistence that led to the decision.
Sabalenka, fresh off her second consecutive Australian Open title in January, will make her mixed doubles return after a five-year hiatus. The two-time Grand Slam singles champion last competed in the format at Wimbledon 2019 with countryman Max Mirnyi. This year's partner remains undisclosed, though Sabalenka teased, "Let's just say he wouldn't take no for an answer — I admire the dedication!"
The Persistent Pursuit
During her pre-tournament press conference at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Sabalenka recounted the persistent campaign: "This guy texted me every day for two weeks straight. When I didn't reply fast enough, he'd send voice notes. Then he started tagging me in mixed doubles highlights from like 2016! I finally said yes just to make the notifications stop."
The 26-year-old clarified the dynamic was all in good fun, noting several factors influenced her decision:
- A desire to "lighten up" after intense singles focus in 2023-24
- The partner's proven doubles credentials (3 Grand Slam men's doubles titles)
- The chance to experiment with net play before the Olympics
Strategic Benefits
Tennis analysts suggest Sabalenka's return to mixed doubles aligns with her coach Anton Dubrov's stated goal of improving volley skills. ESPN's Pam Shriver observed: "Aryna's baseline power is unmatched, but Paris Olympics preparation demands versatility. This is a smart, low-pressure way to develop net confidence."
Olympic Preparation
With the Paris Games featuring mixed doubles as a marquee event, Sabalenka's participation provides valuable match practice. Belarusian Olympic Committee records show she's projected to partner with 2022 Wimbledon doubles champion Andrey Golubev. The US Open arrangement appears to be testing chemistry with alternative partners should Golubev's singles commitments limit availability.
Fan Reactions
Tennis social media erupted with speculation about the mystery partner's identity. Leading theories based on Sabalenka's recent training partners and social media activity include:
- Rajeev Ram (3-time mixed doubles Slam champion)
- Mate Pavić (2021 Wimbledon mixed winner)
- Dark horse pick: Frances Tiafoe, who jokingly proposed teaming up during their 2023 Netflix Break Point filming
Sabalenka remained coy when pressed for details: "I promised him I wouldn't reveal who broke first. Let's just say when you get 37 messages in one day including a spreadsheet of your combined stats... you respect that level of preparation. Maybe too much?" The comment drew laughter from reporters, with one quipping about the unnamed player's "advanced analytics courtship."
Doubles Resurgence
The incident highlights a growing trend of top singles players embracing doubles. Since 2022, mixed doubles participation among top-10 women has increased 62% according to WTA data. Current world No. 1 Iga Świątek praised the move: "Aryna's going to terrify opponents at net. Maybe this starts a new wave of power players dominating both disciplines."
Sabalenka's last mixed doubles appearance ended in a first-round loss at Wimbledon 2019. Her improved serve (now averaging 118mph) and refined volleys make her a formidable threat. Tennis Channel analyst Mark Knowles noted: "With today's power baseline game, having a mixed partner who can crush returns then sprint forward changes everything. Aryna might accidentally win this thing while just working on her transition game."
Tournament Implications
The scheduling gamble could pay dividends if managed carefully. Sabalenka's team confirmed she'll prioritize singles, potentially withdrawing from mixed if she reaches the second week. However, her coach revealed: "We've scheduled extra recovery sessions. Aryna's fitness level allows this challenge. Frankly, she plays better in singles when having fun on court — and nothing's more fun than watching her scare grown men with 90mph reflex volleys."
As the tennis world awaits the big reveal, one thing is certain: Sabalenka's mixed doubles comeback adds an electrifying subplot to the US Open. Whether the mystery partner's persistence yields trophies or just hilarious locker room material remains to be seen when play begins August 26.