Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane make way for streamlined matches and passionate crowds in Sydney and Perth
In a bid to enhance the excitement and competitiveness of the United Cup, organizers have unveiled changes for the 2024 edition of the team tennis tournament. The alterations aim to address concerns raised after the inaugural event and create a more intense and spectator-friendly competition.
The 2022 United Cup, won by the United States, was held across three host cities: Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane. It featured teams engaging in two men’s and two women’s singles matches, along with a mixed doubles match. While the tournament garnered significant attention and enthusiasm, there were instances of what tennis enthusiasts often refer to as “dead rubber” matches—games with no bearing on the overall outcome.
In response to feedback, including input from tennis star Rafa Nadal of Spain, organizers have made significant adjustments to the tournament format. The upcoming 2024 edition of the United Cup will see a reduction in the number of matches played, with each tie featuring just one men’s and one women’s singles match. Following these singles contests, the teams will conclude each tie with an exciting mixed doubles match.
The singles matches will showcase the top-ranked players from each participating country, ensuring high-stakes competition in every tie. By streamlining the format, organizers aim to maintain spectator interest and create a more dynamic viewing experience.
Furthermore, the 2024 United Cup will take place in two host cities only—Sydney and Perth. Brisbane will no longer be staging matches, allowing for a more concentrated and efficient tournament. Similar to the inaugural event, the participating 18 countries will be divided into six groups of three, ensuring competitive group-stage matches.
Reflecting on the success of the 2022 United Cup, tournament director Stephen Farrow expressed his anticipation for the upcoming competition. He remarked, “We saw this year how passionate and intense the crowds were in supporting the United Cup—it was tennis at its very best.”
Tennis enthusiasts and fans can look forward to the 2024 United Cup, which is scheduled to run from December 29 to January 7. With the revised format and streamlined matches, the tournament aims to deliver an electrifying showcase of top-level tennis competition.
