NEW YORK — British tennis stars Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper are set to face off in a thrilling mixed doubles encounter at this year's US Open, marking a rare all-British showdown in the tournament's newly revamped doubles format. The pairing, announced earlier this week, has sparked excitement among fans eager to see the nation's top-ranked singles players compete as opponents on one of tennis's grandest stages.
The 2024 US Open introduces a fresh approach to mixed doubles, with organizers aiming to elevate the event's profile by attracting more high-profile singles players. Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, and Draper, Britain's current men's No. 1, represent exactly the caliber of star power the tournament hopes to showcase. Their first-round clash guarantees at least one British player will advance, while offering spectators a unique opportunity to witness two of the sport's rising talents in a collaborative yet competitive setting.
A Historic Rivalry in the Making
While Raducanu and Draper have never faced each other in professional competition, their paths have frequently crossed in junior tournaments and national team events. "We've practiced together at the National Tennis Centre and know each other's games well," Raducanu told reporters during Wednesday's press conference. "But this will be completely different—playing against each other with partners we've never competed with before."
Draper, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 32 earlier this season, acknowledged the unusual dynamic: "Emma's an incredible player, and it's going to be strange competing against her rather than cheering her on. But that's what makes mixed doubles so special—the unpredictability and the fun of these matchups."
The New Mixed Doubles Format
This year's US Open features several changes to mixed doubles designed to increase participation from top singles players:
- A condensed schedule allowing matches to conclude before the second week of singles play
- Increased prize money, with the winning pair splitting $150,000
- Streamlined sign-up process permitting late entries until the day before competition begins
- Prime-time showcase matches on Arthur Ashe Stadium during the opening weekend
Tournament director Stacey Allaster explained the rationale behind the changes: "We recognize that mixed doubles has historically taken a backseat to singles, but we believe there's tremendous untapped potential in this format. By making it more accessible and rewarding for the players, we're seeing unprecedented interest from the sport's biggest names—including Emma and Jack, who will undoubtedly deliver an unforgettable match."
Preparation and Expectations
Raducanu's Approach
Raducanu, who hasn't played competitive doubles since her junior days, has been practicing with Australian partner John Peers. "John's experience is invaluable—he's won Grand Slam titles in men's doubles. We're focusing on communication and court positioning because that's where mixed doubles becomes really tactical," she noted. The 21-year-old also revealed she's been studying footage of past mixed doubles champions like Martina Hingis and Leander Paes for inspiration.
Draper's Strategy
Draper teams up with American doubles specialist Nicole Melichar-Martinez, forming what many consider the favorite pairing in their quarter of the draw. "Nicole's a brilliant doubles player who reads the game so well," Draper said. "We're planning to use my serve and her net presence to control points." The left-hander's powerful groundstrokes could prove particularly effective in the mixed format, where men often target female opponents.
Broader Implications
Beyond the immediate excitement, this matchup carries significance for British tennis. With Andy Murray's retirement earlier this year, Raducanu and Draper represent the new generation expected to lead the nation's tennis resurgence. Their US Open encounter—regardless of outcome—marks the first time two British players ranked inside their respective top 40s have faced each other in a Grand Slam event since 2016.
LTA performance director Michael Bourne commented: "This is exactly the kind of high-level competition we want to see more of. Emma and Jack pushing each other to new heights can only benefit British tennis. The fact it's happening at a Grand Slam, in an innovative format that's attracting global attention, makes it even more special." The match is scheduled for Friday evening on Court 17, with organizers anticipating a capacity crowd and significant television viewership from UK audiences.