Aryna Sabalenka has playfully confirmed she will team up with Novak Djokovic in mixed doubles at the 2026 US Open, claiming the 24-time Grand Slam champion “begged” her to partner with him. The World No. 1 was asked about the possible collaboration on the court, and her reply is something that has been making rounds on the internet.
Djokovic and Sabalenka to play US Open mixed doubles? World No. 1 responds
Speaking after her victory over Gibson at the Cincinnati Open, the world No. 1 was asked about circulating rumours of an “Aryna-Nole” pairing. With characteristic humour, Sabalenka replied:
“Well you know, he was begging me to play with him. I said ‘you know what… Of course legend, I’ll help you out.”
Sabalenka added:
“Let’s try to have fun and go for the title.’ So I guess it’s true. We are playing. It’s gonna be so much fun. I’m super excited.”
The high-profile duo was already listed among the initial entries for the revamped US Open mixed doubles championship. The event, which offers a $1 million prize to the winners, takes place during Fan Week on 25-26 August, ahead of the main singles draw.
It has been redesigned in recent years to attract more top singles stars by concentrating the competition into a short, high-profile window. Sabalenka, the two-time defending US Open women’s singles champion, and Djokovic, still ranked inside the world’s top five at 39, form one of the most eye-catching combinations in a field that also includes other strong singles pairings.
Their light-hearted confirmation has added extra buzz to the event. Whether the pair can convert star power into a title remains to be seen, but the Belarusian’s comments have already ensured the mixed doubles will be one of the most talked-about stories heading into New York. It remains to be seen when the players take on the hard court at the last Grand Slam of the year.
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