Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz make marketing splash in US Open mixed doubles

New York's US Open embraced a unique format for its mixed doubles event, pairing major singles stars with the aim of creating spectacle and drawing large crowds. This year, the mixed doubles, concentrated within the Fan Week, featured Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz as a headline duo.

The competition, spanning just two days, served as a significant exhibition, prioritizing star power over traditional doubles specialists. Participants often had to navigate qualifying rounds to gain entry. On Tuesday, tennis legend Serena Williams, returning after a wrist injury, teamed up with Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz.

“

I'm playing with the one and only Serena Williams. Just enjoying. Trying to do the things she taught me to do.

Despite a slow start, Williams and Alcaraz rallied to defeat Erin Routliffe of New Zealand and Lloyd Glasspool of Great Britain, 5-3 and 4-1, in their first-round match on Arthur Ashe Stadium. The crowd enthusiastically supported the pair, chanting "Let's go, Serena, let's go!" Williams, playing her first US Open match since 2022, and Alcaraz, whose last match was April 14, appeared to be enjoying themselves.

“

The queen of tennis and the king of the present.

Alcaraz remarked mid-match, "I'm playing with the one and only Serena Williams. Just enjoying. Trying to do the things she taught me to do." The pair advanced to the quarterfinals but were ultimately defeated by Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli, who won 5-4 and 4-1.

The event highlighted the marketing appeal of pairing iconic players, with the announcer dubbing Williams and Alcaraz "the most anticipated couple of the tournament." While the pairing generated considerable buzz and showcased moments of impressive play, their run concluded in the quarterfinals.

“

The most anticipated couple of the tournament.