Unexpected Doubles Duo: Sinner and Navarro Team Up for US Open Glory

A Surprising Partnership

Jannik Sinner and Emma Navarro, both accomplished singles players in their early 20s, have decided to join forces for the mixed doubles event at the upcoming US Open. Despite never having met before Friday, the duo is set to compete together, adding an exciting twist to the tournament.

The First Meeting

"It was very unexpected to be honest," Sinner admitted during a press conference at the All England Club. "I just met her on Friday for the first time. We'd never talked or texted each other."

The US Open Mixed Doubles Event

This year's US Open mixed doubles is scheduled as a standalone event on August 19-20, preceding the main hard-court Grand Slam which begins on August 24. The United States Tennis Association hopes this format will attract more high-profile singles players to participate.

Confidence from Past Successes

While the general belief in doubles tennis is that familiarity breeds success, Sinner and Navarro can draw inspiration from unexpected pairings that have triumphed in the past. For instance, Heather Watson and Henri Kontinen won the 2016 Wimbledon mixed doubles title despite never having played together before the tournament.

The Challenge Ahead

Sinner, a three-time Grand Slam singles champion, has never played a doubles match at a slam. Navarro, who has made several Grand Slam doubles appearances, has yet to win a doubles match at the US Open. Both players are ranked outside the top 500 in doubles, but their singles prowess could make them a formidable team.

Other Notable Pairings

The tournament will also feature other high-profile pairings, including British number one Emma Raducanu and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz. Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios, and Naomi Osaka are also on the entry list, promising an exciting competition.

Sinner's Optimism

Sinner is confident that the new tournament format will be "very exciting for the fans" and that "the best singles players playing doubles is always something fun to watch."

Coaching Changes

Sinner also addressed his recent decision to part ways with two core team members, trainer Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio. "I parted ways not long ago, but it's not affecting me," he said. "I feel ready to compete. I feel free."

Looking Forward

Sinner reached the quarter-finals of last year's Wimbledon, where he was defeated by Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set match. With his focus now on the US Open, Sinner is eager to make a significant impact in both singles and doubles.