Mixed with a twist

Mixed Doubles Draw out - always enjoy the mixed event, though it typically receives short shrift all around.

Interesting Bryans aren't playing, again, 2nd Major in a row. No doubt to save themselves for the push to
The Grand Slam. Always sorry not to see them in the mix, both from level of tennis, and amazing energy that they bring
to the event.

Gr8 to see Martina H back in the mix with Mahesh - understandably not seeded, towards top of 2nd part of draw. Not a bad draw for them with (7) Hlavackova & Mirnyi the highest seeds to face in close proximity. Zimonjic & Srebotnik (2) possibly awaiting if they win their first few matches.

Nestor & Mladenovic - French Open runners-up as No 5 seeds, then Wimbledon Champions as No 8 seed - strangely NOT seeded in New York, and having to face (2) Srebotnik & Zimonjic in 2nd round - seems strange they're not seeded but who knows?

Williams sisters not in the event, no big shocker there, but would be gr8 to see them in the Mix. Venus no doubt conserving energy, and Serena focusing on Singles and Doubles. Always think they can enter and then withdraw if other events get too heavy - but shame if there is an early exit from singles, doubles - to not have the Mixed to fall back on.

Tough draw for (2) Srebotnik & Zimonjic - they've got Qureshi & Black in 1st round - ouch! But it's only a 32 draw, so only 8 seeds.

Two other teams to keep an eye on: Dellacqua & Lipsky, and Mirza & Tecau - former are Major Champions already, latter proven World Class Doubles players teaming up.

1st Mixed Major draw without Paes, since 2003 US Open, when he had his health scare and Martina N wouldn't play with another partner (they won Australia and Wimbledon that year; Aussie giving Martina the last of the Major titles to her collection; Wimbledon, her record tying 20th Title at SW19).

Fed's on - Djoker to come - another action filled day at Flushing!