The 2025 US Open is shaping up to be a spectacle, with its revamped mixed doubles event drawing tennis’ biggest stars to New York’s Flushing Meadows. Amid the buzz surrounding pairings like Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu, a surprising narrative has emerged: American rising star Ben Shelton, dubbed the “sophomore” by legend John McEnroe, has been pitched as a better partner for world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka than her chosen teammate, Grigor Dimitrov. Former pro Rennae Stubbs sparked the debate, arguing that Shelton’s dynamic energy and chemistry with compatriot Taylor Townsend make them a dream duo capable of outshining Sabalenka and Dimitrov. As anticipation builds for the August 19-20 event, the tennis world is abuzz with speculation about whether this bold take will prove prophetic.
Shelton, a 22-year-old Top 10 singles player, and Townsend, a seasoned doubles specialist, bring a unique blend of power and personality to the court. Their camaraderie, forged through years of mutual support, has fans rooting for a repeat of their 2023 US Open mixed doubles semifinal run. “This is the most fun we’ve had on the tennis court in a while,” Shelton said during that tournament, recalling their playful banter and synchronized celebrations. Their bond extends off the court, with Townsend quick to celebrate Shelton’s milestones, like his 2025 Top 10 breakthrough, posting, “Proud of you my bro,” on Instagram. At the 2024 Miami Open, Townsend mimicked Shelton’s iconic “dial-up” celebration, cementing their status as a fan-favorite pair. Stubbs, a former doubles world No. 1, praised their synergy, suggesting Shelton’s explosive serve and Townsend’s net prowess could pose a serious threat.
In contrast, Sabalenka’s decision to team with Dimitrov, a fellow Belarusian, has raised eyebrows. The world No. 1, who defended her 2024 US Open singles title and boasts three Grand Slam singles crowns, is no stranger to doubles success, having won the 2019 US Open and 2021 Australian Open with Elise Mertens. Yet, Dimitrov’s lackluster 2025 season, marked by early exits and no titles, prompted Stubbs to question the pairing. “I think Ben would be a better partner for Aryna,” she said on her podcast, citing Shelton’s youthful vigor and aggressive style as a stronger complement to Sabalenka’s powerful game. Sabalenka revealed Dimitrov “begged” her to join forces, a decision she embraced for their shared heritage and friendship. “Grigor approached me, and I’m excited to play with him,” she said at the Berlin Open, where she’s currently top seed.
The US Open’s mixed doubles, reimagined with a $1 million prize pool and a star-studded lineup including Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek, and Novak Djokovic, aims to captivate global audiences. The USTA’s goal, as stated, is to “drive greater awareness for this storied competition,” and pairings like Shelton-Townsend and Sabalenka-Dimitrov are delivering the drama. Fans are divided, with some backing Stubbs’ take, arguing Shelton’s athleticism could elevate Sabalenka’s dominance, while others believe Dimitrov’s experience and finesse will surprise doubters. “Aryna and Grigor could be a dark horse,” one fan posted online, while another countered, “Shelton and Townsend’s energy is unmatched!”
Shelton’s rapid rise, highlighted by McEnroe’s “sophomore” moniker for his breakout second year, adds intrigue. His 2023 US Open quarterfinal run and 2025 ascent have made him a poster child for American tennis’ new wave. Townsend, meanwhile, brings veteran savvy, having reached the 2022 French Open women’s doubles final. Their 2023 US Open campaign, filled with “funny moments” and crowd-pleasing antics, showcased their ability to thrive under pressure. Sabalenka, fresh off a 2025 French Open final loss to Coco Gauff, remains a formidable force, but her 70 unforced errors in that match raised questions about her adaptability in doubles’ fast-paced format.
As the US Open Fan Week approaches, the Shelton-Townsend versus Sabalenka-Dimitrov debate underscores the event’s unpredictable allure. Will Shelton’s raw talent and Townsend’s flair steal the show, or can Sabalenka and Dimitrov defy the skeptics? With tennis’ biggest stars colliding in this high-stakes showdown, the courts of Flushing Meadows are set to deliver a thrilling chapter in the sport’s evolving story.
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