Henry Patten and Katerina Siniakova recover from a slow start to defeat the top-seeded pair in a dramatic quarter-final clash.
Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka suffered a major upset at the US Open mixed doubles tournament after Henry Patten and Katerina Siniakova produced a remarkable comeback at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Tuesday.
The top-seeded pairing started strongly but could not maintain their momentum as Patten and Siniakova eventually secured a 1-4, 4-2, 10-2 victory to advance to the quarter-finals.
Djokovic and Sabalenka Make Strong Start
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam singles champion, and four-time major winner Sabalenka looked in control early in the contest. The duo quickly took the opening set and appeared on course to progress comfortably.
However, Patten and Siniakova responded with greater intensity in the second set. The pair adjusted their tactics, extended rallies and applied pressure on their opponents to level the match.
The deciding match tiebreak then proved decisive. Patten and Siniakova dominated from the beginning, racing to a convincing 10-2 victory and completing one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
Siniakova Seals Stunning Victory
Siniakova delivered the final blow with an ace out wide on match point, sending the top seeds out of the competition and securing a place in the last eight.
Patten highlighted how quickly momentum can change in the shortened mixed doubles format, while also praising his partnership with Siniakova during the decisive tiebreak.
Siniakova said the pair had initially struggled against the powerful serving and shot-making of Djokovic and Sabalenka. They subsequently focused on creating longer doubles rallies, which helped them turn the contest around.
Revamped US Open Mixed Doubles Format
The mixed doubles championship is again being held during the week before the US Open singles main draw. Organisers introduced the revamped format last year to attract more high-profile singles players.
The new structure features a smaller field and a dedicated place on the tournament calendar. Despite criticism from sections of the doubles community, the format proved commercially successful in its first year.
The event attracted several of tennis’ biggest stars and generated strong crowds, with organisers continuing the approach this year. Djokovic and Sabalenka’s early elimination now leaves the mixed doubles competition open for another pairing to claim the spotlight.