Emma Navarro was set to team up with Jannik Sinner for the new mixed doubles event at the US Open, but the American tennis star shocked everyone by pulling out of the tournament. Instead of playing alongside the World No. 1 in New York, Navarro chose to compete at the WTA 500 tournament in Monterrey, Mexico.
The 24-year-old recently explained why she made this surprising choice, giving fans insight into her preparation strategy.
Why Did Emma Navarro Choose to Skip the US Open Mixed Doubles?
When a member of PFSN asked Navarro in an interview how important the Monterrey Open is for her to build momentum heading into the year’s last Grand Slam, she spoke candidly about her match-focused approach.
“I think I’m kind of a match-play type of player, I like to get matches in. I think I learn the most about myself on the match court. It’s the toughest environment to be in and the most stressful. So, I think I get the most out of myself and the most feedback when I’m in the arena,” she answered.
Navarro admitted that she enjoyed playing the tournament and looked forward to the Grand Slam: “So, yeah, I enjoyed playing a tournament a week before the Slams, and I think I’m excited to, sort of, see what this week brings. I’m always learning every time I play a tournament, so we’ll see what I learn this week.”
As the top seed at Monterrey, she received a bye in the first round and will play her first match on Aug. 20.
Emma Navarro Press Conference pic.twitter.com/spjqrbbv5D
— Ken McKinnon (@mckinnon88877) August 19, 2025
Navarro had a breakthrough performance at the 2024 US Open when she reached her first Grand Slam semifinal by defeating Paula Badosa in straight sets. One notable victory in her campaign was over the defending champion Coco Gauff in the fourth round in a thrilling three-set match.
Navarro’s Recent Form Heading into the US Open
Navarro’s decision to play in Monterrey came after a tough stretch of results leading up to the US Open. The World No. 11 struggled with early exits in Montreal, losing to Dayana Yastremska in the third round in straight sets. This continued in Cincinnati, where qualifier Ella Seidel upset her in round two, despite winning a set.
These setbacks likely led her to play in Monterrey rather than participate in the exhibition-style mixed doubles event.
Her withdrawal forced Sinner to find a new partner. He was later paired with Kateřina Siniaková, but he ultimately withdrew due to illness following his retirement in the Cincinnati Open final against Carlos Alcaraz.
Navarro’s focus on singles preparation over the US Open’s mixed doubles underscores her commitment to defending her ranking points at Flushing Meadows and maintaining her place among the world’s top 15.