When the news about the US Open’s plans emerged in February, reigning mixed doubles champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavussori labelled the decision “a profound injustice”.
Their thoughts have since been echoed by many doubles specialists, who also gripe about losing a crucial earning opportunity after being pushed out in favour of the stars.
Errani and Vavussori were eventually given a wildcard to play in the 16-team event, but were the only specialist doubles pairing in the draw.
The Italian pair opened the day’s play on Louis Armstrong Stadium – the second show court at Flushing Meadows – and competed like they had a point to prove.
Passionate roars were loud and clear throughout their 4-2 4-2 opening win over big-name pairing Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz.
More emotion was shown when they reached Wednesday’s semi-finals with a 4-1 5-4 (7-4) victory against Karolina Muchova and Andrey Rublev.
“We’re also playing for all the doubles players that could not be here, so we tried to do our best,” said Vavassori.
Errani and Vavassori face American pair Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison – who signed in on Tuesday morning to replace Sinner and Katerina Siniakova – in Wednesday’s semi-finals.
Six-time Grand Slam singles champion Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, a three-time major finalist, meet Pegula and Draper.
