The US Open details how the draw for the innovative mixed doubles will be formed in 2026

The US Open 2026 will once again bet on the revolutionary mixed doubles format introduced last year. The tournament will take place the week before the start of the singles draws and will feature a draw of 16 pairs, aiming to bring together the top figures from the ATP and WTA circuits in a brief, intense competition that holds great appeal for fans.

The organization has now confirmed the criteria that will determine which pairs will directly access the main draw, which ones will have to compete in the qualifying rounds, and how the seeds will be established - a key aspect in shaping the tournament.

Individual rankings will pave the way to the final draw

The rankings published after the conclusion of the tournaments in Canada will be used as the reference to compile both the list of participants and the seeding order.

Re US Open mixed doubles:
Post-Canada rankings will be used both for entries and seedings.
Best of singles *or* doubles rankings to be used for entry into mixed qualifying draw (6 spots).
Singles ranking takes priority in the main draw — both for entries (6 spots) and seedings.

— Oleg S. (@AnnaK_4ever) July 22, 2026

Out of the 16 pairs that will make up the final draw, six will secure their spot directly based on the individual rankings of their members, a criterion that will also determine the seeds. The aim is to encourage the presence of the main circuit stars and promote the creation of highly media-attractive pairs.

With this streamlined format, the US Open aims to establish a competition that already surprised in its debut and aspires to become a fixed event on the calendar. The opportunity to see some of the best male and female players in the world compete together will once again generate great excitement prior to the start of the final Grand Slam of the season.