NEW YORK — Italian doubles specialists Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori declared their “mission accomplished” after a stunning victory over the star-studded pairing of Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud to capture the revamped US Open mixed doubles title on Sunday.
The unseeded duo, who had dubbed their run a “mission” from the outset, completed their objective with a 6-3, 6-4 triumph on a sun-drenched Arthur Ashe Stadium court. Their win marks a significant moment in the tournament's history, as it was the first time the mixed doubles event was held concurrently with the main draw singles and featured a 32-team draw, offering equal prize money and a heightened profile.
Errani, a former singles finalist at Roland Garros and a doubles Grand Slam champion, and Vavassori, a rising force on the doubles circuit, showcased impeccable chemistry and tactical brilliance to neutralize the formidable firepower of their opponents, who are both current world No. 1s in singles.
A Tactical Masterclass on Ashe
From the first ball, the Italian strategy was clear: utilize Errani’s legendary returning ability and net presence while leveraging Vavassori’s powerful serve and penetrating groundstrokes. They executed this plan to perfection, breaking the Ruud serve early in both sets to seize control of the match.
The key factors in their victory included:
- Superior Net Play: Errani and Vavassori were relentless at the net, cutting off angles and volleying with precision, winning a staggering 80% of their net points.
- Targeted Returns: Errani consistently attacked the Swiatek second serve, preventing the Polish star from dictating play and keeping her and Ruud on the defensive.
- Unbreakable Chemistry: Their communication and court coverage were seamless, often anticipating each other's movements to close down the court effectively.
In contrast, the highly anticipated duo of Swiatek and Ruud, while displaying flashes of individual brilliance, struggled to find their rhythm as a pair. Uncharacteristic double faults and a handful of mistimed groundstrokes at critical moments proved costly against the relentless consistency of the Italians.
The Emotional Victory Lap
When Vavassori’s final serve was unreturnable, the Italians embraced at the net, a mix of joy and disbelief washing over them. For Errani, it was a return to the Grand Slam winner's circle, a feeling she last experienced nearly a decade ago.
During the trophy ceremony, an emotional Errani reflected on their incredible journey, stating: "It was a mission for us. We came here to try to win, and we did it. To play on this court against two number ones and to win is something incredible. Andrea played unbelievable; I tried to help with my energy. I'm so happy."
Vavassori, who claimed his first major title, was quick to credit his veteran partner: "For me, it's a dream to win here. To share the court with Sara is amazing. She has so much experience, and she guided me through every point. We fought for every ball, and this is the result."
A New Era for Mixed Doubles
The 2024 US Open’s revamp of the mixed doubles competition was widely praised by players and fans alike. The decision to integrate it fully into the schedule, with matches played on the show courts, and the commitment to equal prize money, was seen as a significant step forward for the discipline.
The success of the event, culminating in a thrilling final featuring contrasting styles and compelling narratives, validates the USTA's efforts to elevate the profile of mixed doubles. The sight of two singles world No. 1s competing for the title alongside two dedicated doubles experts provided a perfect showcase for the unique challenges and excitement of the format.
Gracious in Defeat, Focused on the Future
For Swiatek and Ruud, the loss was a disappointment, but both were gracious in defeat. Swiatek, who was bidding for a rare singles and mixed double title in the same year, acknowledged the superiority of the Italians on the day: "They played unreal tennis. They definitely deserved to win. We had fun, but they were just better."
Ruud echoed the sentiment, adding: "It was a great experience. Congrats to Sara and Andrea. They have a great doubles game and showed it today. Iga played great, and we gave it our shot, but it wasn't enough."
Both singles stars indicated they would consider playing mixed doubles again in the future, attracted by the fun and different challenges it presents away from the intense pressure of the singles tour.
Conclusion: A Mission Fulfilled
The story of the 2024 US Open mixed doubles championship will be remembered as a triumph of specialization, partnership, and sheer determination. Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, two players who have dedicated their careers to mastering the nuances of doubles tennis, proved that chemistry and tactic can overcome raw power and singles pedigree.
Their victory not only fulfills their personal "mission" but also serves as a powerful endorsement for the revamped mixed doubles event. By providing a platform for these specialists to shine alongside the biggest names in the sport, the US Open has successfully reinvigorated a beloved tradition, ensuring its place as a cherished and competitive part of the tennis calendar for years to come.