For all of the excitement and controversy that came with the overhauled US Open mixed doubles tournament, by the time the two-day event was over, it was last year’s champions who managed to retain their title. US Open organisers revamped the format this year, with entries based on singles rankings and spots were hard to come by - only 16 teams made the cut.

Only one doubles specialist pairing received a wildcard into the draw, reigning champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori. And they proved that doubles is a real specialism, rather than a hit-and-giggle for singles players, as they lifted the trophy after beating Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud in the final.

When tournament bosses announced changes to the mixed doubles tournament earlier this year, Errani and Vavassori branded the new event a “profound injustice” in a lengthy statement. And they had the last laugh on Wednesday night in Flushing Meadows, sending another strong message to those at the top.

“I think this one is for all the doubles players that couldn’t play this tournament. I think this one is also for them,” WTA doubles No. 4 Errani told a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Vavassori - who spoke out following their first-round victory over Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz - made it clear that doubles had its place in the sport during his winners’ speech.

He added: “We showed today that doubles is a great product. I think in the future we need more marketing and visibility.

“I think this product is something that can also work in the future. It was amazing to play on this court with so many people. I have to say thanks from the bottom of my heart for the atmosphere.”

Even though players were asked to enter the tournament using their singles rankings, some doubles players also signed up in the hopes of receiving a wildcard. Only Errani and Vavassori got a pass into the main draw as the defending champions - but even they doubted whether they’d be allowed to play.

“I was not believing on it. We were waiting. We didn't know. Was tough. For me was more no than yes,” Errani said after the final.

Vavassori, meanwhile, thought their public criticism of the tournament helped their case to get a wildcard. He replied: “Actually, I don't think if we didn't do the statement if we would have played this tournament, honestly.

“I think it was important for us to play. Like I have to say the initiative was also important because was really a statement that doubles can become something better. The stadium was packed. The people were enjoying.

“If something doesn't work, like we showed today that it's working. Like, the people were going crazy. The noise. Also the super tiebreaker, so many good points. I think is something that we are proud to stay here with the trophy.”

The prize money on offer was also a huge talking point. Last year, Errani and Vavassori bagged £149k (£200k) as the champions. This time, they will share £743k ($1million).

However, top singles players are used to earning huge amounts of money at the latter stages of Grand Slams. With most doubles stars not able to enter the mixed competition, it was seen as a missed opportunity to earn a big winners’ cheque.

“Yeah, I think for sure other people were not so happy. I guess that's also because if I would not have the opportunity to play, I would be mad, too. Last year was amazing for us,” Vavassori said of the “very huge” increase to the prize money.

“I think the initiative is something good for the sport. But in the future we have to give the best doubles players to compete.”

Errani added: “Yeah, because is also their work. I think it's fair also doubles players, very good players. I think like this year, like taking out work from the doubles, I mean, everybody's playing also for money. I think it's important also for the other doubles players.”

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