Taylor Fritz says he understands both doubles players and the US Open and suggests that this year’s tournament at Flushing Meadows will give some clear answers.
For this year’s tournament edition, the US Open organizers are planning to do something completely different with their mixed doubles event, making it a two-day event during the qualifying week.
It will feature only 16 teams – eight get directly and the rest through a wildcard – the Fast4 format will be used – and there will be a record $1 million prize money at stake.
Since this has been done to entice top singles stars to play, the move left doubles players enraged and furious.
Fritz, who backed the US Open’s decision once it was first announced and indicated that he would play in the mixed doubles event, says he fully understands the frustration that may be coming from some players because there will be a record prize money offered and traditional doubles players probably won’t have a chance to play.
“I think [doubles players] have a right to be upset, be angry,” the world No. 4 told Sports Illustrated.
Fritz adds: But when you look at the business side of things…
“But I think you also have to look at the side of the tournaments, a business side of things,” the American added.
“We’ll get the proof, I guess, at the US Open. If the turnout for the mixed doubles event with the top singles players in it is much, much better and maybe in the tournament it feels like they’re profiting off of it more than [before], I don’t think you can argue with it from a business side of things.
“But obviously, a traditional side of things, like I get, what the doubles players [are saying]. I get why they’re upset.”
If the US Open organizers can lure top male and female players to compete in their mixed doubles tournament, that would certainly draw attention and fill up the stands even before the start of the main action.
And if that happens – which is very likely – the tournament will very likely continue with this format.
Tennis World USA