Serena Williams is set to return to the US Open, joining forces with reigning men’s singles champion Carlos Alcaraz in the mixed doubles competition at the 2026 tournament. This marks Williams’ first appearance at Flushing Meadows since her farewell run in 2022, as the pair secured a wildcard to enter the mixed doubles draw.
Williams and Alcaraz Enter a Revamped Mixed Doubles Field
Their first-round opponents remain unknown until the draw is finalized on Monday. This year, the US Open features a new mixed doubles format, including a qualifying round where eight teams compete for entry into the 16-team main bracket. This adjustment comes after the United States Tennis Association revamped the entry process, basing it more heavily on singles rankings. Consequently, Williams and Alcaraz are expected to encounter a team of doubles specialists early in the tournament.
The tournament’s schedule has also been modified to provide mixed doubles matches with a broader timeframe. Opening and quarterfinal rounds will be played on Tuesday, followed by the semifinals and final on Wednesday. The format itself has undergone notable changes: sets will be played to four games, employing no-ad scoring, and a 10-point tiebreaker will replace the traditional full third set.
Besides this high-profile partnership, the field is strong, featuring seven of the Top 10 WTA players and six of the Top 10 ATP players, underscoring the competitive depth of the mixed doubles event at this year’s US Open.