Andrea Vavassori and Sara Errani delivered a commanding performance at the 2025 US Open, defeating the second-seeded team of Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz in straight sets, 4-2, 4-2. The match, played on Louis Armstrong Stadium, was part of the newly restructured mixed doubles event, which has drawn criticism for excluding many professional doubles specialists.
Vavassori speaks for the doubles community
Following the victory, Vavassori addressed the crowd with a message that resonated beyond the scoreboard. “We are playing for all the doubles players that could not compete here. We try to do our best,” he said. His words reflected the frustration felt by many in the doubles circuit, as the tournament now prioritizes singles rankings for entry, leaving traditional doubles teams sidelined.
Chemistry over star power
Despite facing two top-tier singles players, Vavassori and Errani’s experience and synergy proved decisive. Their tactical awareness, sharp net play, and seamless communication gave them the edge over Fritz and Rybakina, who were playing together for the first time. The Italians, who won the mixed doubles title in 2024, showed that familiarity and teamwork can outmatch raw power and individual talent.
A format under fire
The revamped mixed doubles event features a condensed draw of 16 teams, with fast-four scoring and no-ad rules. While the format aims to attract more attention and star power, it has sparked debate about fairness and representation. Vavassori and Errani, the only true doubles specialists in the field, were granted a wildcard entry and have used their platform to advocate for their peers.
Eyes on the next round
With their win, the Italian duo advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face Karolina Muchova and Andrey Rublev. As the tournament progresses, Vavassori and Errani continue to carry the hopes of the doubles community, proving that skill, strategy, and solidarity still have a place on the sport’s biggest stage.