Reilly Opelka’s dismissive remark about mixed doubles has ignited intense reactions from fans and players alike
While the US Open’s new format has already been a topic of debate, Opelka’s blunt comment has added another layer of controversy.
The future of mixed doubles remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the tennis world is deeply divided on the issue.
Reilly Opelka’s outspoken opinions on doubles have challenged conventional wisdom and sparked heated discussions in the tennis world.
While his views may not be universally accepted, they do raise important questions about the structure, appeal, and financial viability of doubles.
Whether the sport ultimately embraces his suggested changes or chooses to reinforce the status quo, one thing is certain: the doubles debate is far from over.
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Table of Contents
Reilly Opelka: What Happened To Him?
US Open’s Mixed Doubles Revamp
The recent revamp of the US Open’s mixed doubles format has stirred heated debates within the tennis community.1
While some appreciate the changes as a step forward, others see them as a disregard for the traditional doubles format.
Amidst this discourse, American tennis player Reilly Opelka added fuel to the fire with a controversial comment, sparking backlash from fans and fellow players alike.
The U.S. Open introduced significant changes to its mixed doubles format for the 2024 edition. The revised structure includes:
- A reduction in the draw from 32 teams to 16 teams.
- Scheduling of matches during Fan Week, before the main singles events commence.
- A substantial $1 million prize for the winners.
- The inclusion of eight seeded teams (based on combined singles rankings) and eight wildcard teams.
Thanks for a fun run, Tennis Twitter. Haven’t had the time to enjoy the account or engage as much as I’d like, so I’m bidding you adieu! Next thing you know, Reilly will shave me! 🧔🏻 Tennis forever!✌🏻
— Reilly Opelka’s Beard (@opelkasbeard) November 14, 2024
The US Open’s Mixed Doubles Revamp
While some believe this revamp increases the visibility and prestige of mixed doubles, others argue that it diminishes the importance of doubles in general.
Several doubles specialists have voiced concerns over the lack of player consultation regarding these changes.
Several professional players have criticized the overhaul. Doubles regular Jan Zielinski pointed out that players were not consulted before implementing these changes.
Ellen Perez also expressed her frustration, stating that the new format disregards doubles players.
Additionally, 2024 US Open mixed doubles champions Andrea Vavassori and Sara Errani released a joint statement condemning the changes and advocating for a more inclusive approach.
Reilly Opelka’s Controversial Comment
Reilly Opelka, known for his outspoken and often controversial takes, made a dismissive remark regarding mixed doubles.2
Posting on Instagram, Opelka stated:
“Wait… mixed dubs wasn’t always an exhibition?!”
This comment was shared on Reddit, where many tennis fans saw it as a disrespectful jab at doubles specialists and the significance of mixed doubles at Grand Slam events.
Opelka’s statement quickly drew widespread criticism from fans. Many perceived his remarks as arrogant and out of touch. Here are some of the notable reactions:
- “Whenever he has something to say, it’s safe to assume it’s a dumba* statement. Spoiled kid who has been gifted his whole life and he doesn’t even know it. Bros 7 foot lmao. He’s hit the genetic lottery yet he’s over here smashing on people trying to accomplish their dreams.”*
- “The guy checks a lot of boxes for the typical entitled and rude American white guy.”
- “He’s always this way. He also has commented before that he thinks they should get rid of doubles altogether. I personally can’t stand him.”
Further Criticism and Memes
Many fans took the opportunity to mock Opelka’s stance. Some labeled him as a “doubles hater,” referencing his past statements about the format being irrelevant.
Others ridiculed his style, calling him an “out-of-touch serve bot” who relies heavily on his height rather than technical skill.
One fan quipped:
- “Reilly Opelka is obviously a dink but competitive mixed doubles at the professional level is a tough sell outside of the Olympics.”
Another added:
- “He is arrogant af and has said doubles should be canceled. I personally think doubles are more fun to watch than a serve bot’s single match.”
Reilly Opelka’s History with Doubles Criticism
This is not the first time Opelka has dismissed doubles tennis. He has previously suggested that doubles should be removed from professional tournaments altogether.3
His argument is that doubles events receive less viewership and do not bring the same level of competitiveness as singles.
However, many players and fans disagree with this stance, emphasizing that doubles matches often showcase incredible teamwork, strategy, and dynamic play that singles cannot replicate.
The Broader Debate on Mixed Doubles’ Relevance
Opelka’s remarks have reignited the long-standing debate over mixed doubles’ relevance in professional tennis.
Some critics argue that mixed doubles lacks the same intensity and competitiveness as men’s and women’s singles.
However, supporters counter that mixed doubles provides a unique and entertaining spectacle, bringing a different dynamic to the sport.
Furthermore, mixed doubles has historically played a vital role in team competitions such as the Olympics and the Hopman Cup. It has also been an important platform for players to extend their careers and gain valuable court experience.
The Impact of the US Open’s Changes
The US Open’s decision to alter the mixed doubles format may have lasting effects on the sport. If successful, it could set a precedent for other Grand Slam tournaments to follow suit.
However, if it leads to decreased participation and engagement, organizers may be forced to reconsider the changes.
One key concern is the scheduling of mixed doubles matches during Fan Week. Some players worry that this move reduces the prestige of the event, making it feel like a secondary attraction rather than a core component of the tournament.
As of now, Reilly Opelka has not publicly responded to the backlash. Given his history, it is unlikely that he will retract his statement. Instead, he may double down on his opinion, further fueling the controversy.
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Reilly Opelka’s Views on Doubles in Tennis
A Polarizing Perspective
Reilly Opelka, a towering figure in the tennis world, is known for his strong opinions as much as for his powerful serve.
One of the most controversial stances he has taken concerns the role of doubles in professional tennis. Opelka has repeatedly voiced skepticism about the relevance of doubles specialists and has even suggested structural changes to how doubles tournaments operate.
His remarks have sparked debates among players, coaches, and fans alike, leading to a larger conversation about the place of doubles in the modern game.
Challenging the Traditional Doubles Format
Opelka’s primary contention lies in the scheduling and structure of doubles events, particularly at ATP 250 and 500 tournaments. During a 2023 appearance on Mark Shapiro’s tennis podcast, he proposed a radical shift:
“At the 250 and 500 level I would say Friday, Saturday, Sunday – doubles. So, you cut the draw in half right then and there. And I would only allow the guys that are in singles to enter the doubles draw.”
This suggestion would effectively reduce the number of players competing in doubles while restricting participation to those who also compete in singles. Such a move would drastically alter the doubles landscape and could marginalize those who have dedicated their careers to doubles play.
The Doubles Specialist Debate
Beyond tournament format, Opelka has been vocal in questioning the very concept of a “doubles specialist.” He argues that doubles specialists do not emerge from junior ranks with that aspiration:
“I don’t think anyone is really a doubles specialist. I mean, if you go to any junior tournament and you ask a bunch of young, aspiring tennis players, ‘What are your goals? What’s your end game? What do you dream of in tennis? There’s not a single one that’s gonna tell you – ‘I want to be a doubles specialist.'”
According to Opelka, professional doubles is more of a fallback option for players who have struggled to make it as singles competitors.
His comments challenge the prestige and viability of doubles as a distinct discipline, an assertion that has been met with criticism from established doubles players.
Reilly Opelka’s Own Doubles Career
Interestingly, Opelka himself has dabbled in doubles, with a respectable, though not standout, career.
He has a 21-23 win-loss record in doubles, with one ATP title to his name, won alongside Jannik Sinner at the Atlanta Open, an ATP 250 event.
While his success in doubles is limited, it does demonstrate that he has firsthand experience in the format. Despite this, he remains adamant that singles players should be the primary competitors in doubles draws.
Reaction from the Tennis Community
Opelka’s comments have not gone unnoticed. Many doubles specialists, including former Grand Slam champions, have pushed back against his views.
Doubles is a unique skill set requiring distinct tactics, teamwork, and reflexes that differ significantly from singles. Critics argue that Opelka’s statements diminish the dedication and talent required to succeed in doubles.
For instance, prominent doubles champions like Bob and Mike Bryan, as well as players like Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram, have emphasized the importance of doubles in expanding opportunities for professional players.
They argue that the format provides an additional avenue for success and extends careers, particularly for those who may not thrive in the physically demanding singles circuit.
Reilly Opelka: Partnership
Reilly Opelka tied up in a paid partnership with one of the leading garment brands Prada and shared glimpses on his instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
The Economic Perspective: Is Doubles Marketable?
One of Opelka’s implicit criticisms of doubles is its marketability. Compared to singles, doubles matches attract smaller audiences and receive less television coverage.
Opelka’s proposed changes, limiting doubles participation to singles players, could be viewed as an attempt to increase viewership by featuring more well-known names.
However, this raises questions about whether the sport should prioritize financial considerations over competitive integrity.
While it is true that singles matches draw more attention, eliminating or restricting dedicated doubles players could alienate a significant segment of the tennis community.
Sponsors, tournament organizers, and fans have differing perspectives on whether doubles should remain an open field or be reshaped to fit a new model.
The Role of Doubles in Player Development
Historically, doubles has played a crucial role in player development. Many top singles players, including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, played doubles early in their careers.
It helped them refine their net play, improve reflexes, and develop strategic acumen. Some argue that restricting doubles to singles players could, paradoxically, reduce opportunities for young talents to gain valuable match experience.
The broader discussion raised by Opelka’s comments is whether doubles needs reform.
Some potential changes, such as increased prize money, enhanced marketing, or format adjustments (e.g., shorter sets or different scoring methods), could make doubles more appealing to mainstream audiences without eliminating doubles specialists.
Others, however, believe that Opelka’s approach is too radical and dismissive of the depth and tradition of doubles tennis.
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