Williams and Alcaraz win opening mixed-doubles match at U.S. Open

Serena Williams, 44, and Carlos Alcaraz, 23, paired for the first mixed-doubles match of the U.S. Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to win 5-3, 4-1 against seasoned doubles specialists Erin Routliffe and Lloyd Glasspool. The victory came in the tournament’s new fast-four format, which was introduced to highlight singles players.

"She made it really easy for me," Alcaraz said after the win.

"This is such a bonus. To play with Carlos is honestly so cool," Williams added.

The duo’s momentum ended in the second round, where they were defeated by Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli, the reigning mixed-doubles champions from Indian Wells. Elsewhere, the mixed-doubles draw featured several singles stars, including world No. 1 Kateřina Siniaková and Henry Patten, as well the husband-and-wife team of Gaël Monfils and Elina Svitolina, who advanced to the semifinals.

The tournament’s format change has drawn mixed reactions from players who specialize in doubles, but the presence of high-profile singles competitors has increased audience interest and prize money.