The 2021 US Open has been a thrilling event for tennis fans around the world. With top players competing for the coveted title, the tournament has been nothing short of exciting. However, amidst all the action and glamour, there has been a major change in the mixed doubles events that has left defending champion Andrea Vavassori disappointed.
After winning the mixed doubles title at last year’s US Open with his partner Sara Errani, Vavassori had high hopes for this year’s event. However, the Italian player was in for a shock when he found out that the mixed doubles event would no longer be a part of the Grand Slam tournament. In an interview, Vavassori expressed his disappointment and said, “We see it as a profound injustice that disrespects an entire category of players. Putting money above tennis is never a good idea.”
It is indeed a sad state of affairs when money takes precedence over the sport itself. The decision to remove the mixed doubles event from the US Open has caused an uproar among players and fans alike. This move by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has been heavily criticized and has raised questions about the future of the sport.
The mixed doubles event has always been an integral part of the US Open, and its removal has left many players feeling undervalued and disrespected. Vavassori’s statement sheds light on the fact that the USTA is not only disregarding the players but also the fans who enjoy watching the mixed doubles matches. It is a decision that has not been well received by the tennis community.
One of the main reasons cited by the USTA for removing the mixed doubles event is to make the tournament more financially viable. However, Vavassori believes that this is not the right approach. He said, “Putting money above tennis is never a good idea.” This statement holds true not just for the US Open but for any other sporting event as well. While financial stability is important, it should not come at the cost of the sport’s integrity and the players’ hard work.
Moreover, the mixed doubles event has always provided a platform for young and upcoming players to showcase their talent. With its removal, many players will miss out on the opportunity to compete at the Grand Slam level. This could potentially hinder the growth and development of the sport in the future. As Vavassori rightly pointed out, “We see it as a profound injustice that disrespects an entire category of players.” The decision to remove the mixed doubles event not only affects the current players but also the future of the sport.
Vavassori’s powerful statement serves as a wake-up call for the USTA to reconsider their decision. It is essential for the governing body to understand that the mixed doubles event is not just about the money, but it is a product that can grow in the future. By removing it, the USTA is limiting the potential of the sport and depriving fans of an exciting and entertaining event.
In conclusion, the US Open champion’s statement has shed light on a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. The decision to remove the mixed doubles event from the tournament is a step in the wrong direction. It not only disrespects the players but also goes against the spirit of the sport. The USTA must take Vavassori’s words to heart and realize that putting money above tennis is never a good idea. Let us hope that this wake-up call leads to a positive change and the mixed doubles event is reinstated at the US Open in the future.
