Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1 and reigning US Open women’s singles champion, was set to light up the courts at Flushing Meadows with Grigor Dimitrov in the revamped 2025 US Open mixed doubles event. The Belarusian powerhouse, known for her ferocious serves and unrelenting baseline game, had agreed to partner with the Bulgarian star after what she playfully described as relentless persuasion. “He was texting me, non-stop, begging me to play,” Sabalenka shared with a laugh during a press conference at the Berlin Tennis Open. “I was like, ‘Man, I don’t want to play.’ But he was begging and I was like, ‘Ok, you got it.’” Their chemistry, forged during a successful stint at the 2022 World Tennis League where they defeated tough opponents like Bianca Andreescu, promised an electrifying performance. However, a right pectoral injury sustained by Dimitrov during his fourth-round Wimbledon match against Jannik Sinner forced him to withdraw from the US Open, leaving Sabalenka without a partner just weeks before the August 19-20 event.
The mixed doubles tournament, reimagined for 2025 as a star-studded, 16-team spectacle during Fan Week with a $1 million prize pot, has drawn an impressive lineup, including pairings like Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu, Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, and defending champions Andrea Vavassori and Sara Errani. With 14 of the 16 teams confirmed, Sabalenka’s doubles pedigree—two Grand Slam titles with Elise Mertens at the 2019 US Open and 2021 Australian Open, plus a former No. 1 doubles ranking—makes her a prime candidate for a wildcard spot. “I have a Grand Slam title in doubles and singles, and I always wanted to get it in mixed doubles but [it was] never a good time,” she said, reflecting on her excitement for the event’s new format, which features shorter matches to attract top singles players. Now, with Dimitrov sidelined, speculation is rife about who could step in to form a dynamic duo with the three-time Grand Slam singles champion.
Among the names floated, Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik stands out as a compelling choice. The 27-year-old, ranked No. 25, has been on a tear since Wimbledon, winning eight consecutive matches and capturing two ATP titles to bring his 2025 tally to three. Known for his flashy shot-making and unpredictable flair, Bublik could complement Sabalenka’s aggressive style, creating a partnership that promises “world-class shot-making and powerful ball striking,” as one observer noted. Their combined ranking of 26 (Sabalenka at No. 1, Bublik at No. 25) falls just short of direct entry, but a wildcard seems within reach, especially given Sabalenka’s star power and the tournament’s desire to showcase elite talent. “With two more places up for grabs, it will be interesting to see if Sabalenka and Bublik put themselves forward,” a tennis insider commented, highlighting the potential for this pairing to captivate fans at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Sabalenka’s decision to compete in mixed doubles marks a return to the discipline after focusing on singles since her 2021 doubles triumph. Her 2025 season has been stellar yet bittersweet, with finals appearances at the Australian Open and Roland Garros but no major titles to add to her three Grand Slam singles crowns. Skipping the Canadian Open to prioritize rest and preparation for Cincinnati and her US Open title defense, Sabalenka is poised to make a statement in New York. The mixed doubles event, held before the singles main draw, offers a chance to showcase her versatility and entertain fans with her infectious energy. “I love playing doubles, and mixed doubles is so much fun,” she said, recalling her enjoyable exhibition matches with Dimitrov. A partnership with Bublik could amplify that fun, blending her thunderous groundstrokes with his creative flair.
As the tennis world awaits confirmation of the final two wildcard spots, Sabalenka’s next move is a hot topic. The absence of Dimitrov, whose limited doubles experience included a 2011 Eastbourne final and a 2013 Australian Open third-round run, opens the door for a fresh alliance. Bublik, with his recent hot streak and showman’s charisma, could be the spark Sabalenka needs to chase the mixed doubles title and complete her US Open trifecta. With the tournament fast approaching, all eyes are on whether this potential pairing will ignite the courts and deliver the thrilling showdown fans are craving.
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