The mixed doubles competition at this year’s US Open will be held earlier than normal in the hope of showcasing some of tennis’ biggest stars, but the decision has also prompted ire from players.

The US Open is reforming its mixed doubles event to be a standalone competition before the main draws. Featuring 16 teams, it will use abbreviated match formats. Critics argue this change devalues the event,

The U.S. Open mixed doubles competition will now be played before the singles main draw, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) said on Tuesday as it announced an overhaul of the category's format and an increase in prize money.