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Russia has been excluded from the inaugural United Cup, scheduled to kickstart the 2023 season. In partnership with Tennis Australia, the ATP and WTA joined forces to create the United States, a mixed-gender tournament. Between December 29 and January 8, 18 countries will be competing across Brisbane, Perth and Sydney.
In a statement, it was revealed that the first 12 countries to qualify will be based on the six highest-ranked players on the ATP and WTA Tours. The remaining six countries will qualify based on the rankings of their respective No 1 men's and women's players.
The United Cup will feature some of the biggest names but there won't be the likes of Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Daria Kasatkina or Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Each city will host two groups of three countries as each tie will feature two men's matches, two women's matches, as well as one mixed doubles match.
The three winners of those respective countries will progress into the United Cup Final Four. Also, the next team with the best performance from the group stage will qualify for the United Cup Final Four.
The United Cup set to launch but without Russia competing
“The United Cup marks a major step forward for the game of tennis.
Most importantly, it will create incredible new experiences for our fans. We’re excited to see the best men’s and women’s players competing together, with ranking points on the line, to launch the season like never before," ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi said in a statement.
Meanwhile, WTA Chairman and CEO Steve Simon said: “The United Cup is an important and strategic collaboration between the WTA, the ATP and Tennis Australia that reflects a continued commitment in elevating our sport.
This exciting singles and mixed doubles team event will bring together emerging stars and established athletes from both Tours to compete on the same stage, giving players and fans a unique experience in which the final outcome may be determined with women and men competing together”.