Can Skupski and Salisbury Overcome Heartbreak in Final?

In a thrilling encounter at the 2025 US Open, British tennis duo Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski faced a heartbreaking defeat in the men's doubles final against Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos. Despite leading the match at key moments, they ultimately fell short, losing 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-5. This loss marks the third Grand Slam meeting in which the British pair have been bested by the Spanish-Argentinian duo.

Last updated: 23 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the US Open Men's Doubles Final

• Salisbury and Skupski were aiming for their first Grand Slam title as a team.
• They missed three championship points, a pivotal moment in the match.
• This defeat follows their earlier loss to Granollers and Zeballos in the French Open final.
• The British pair showed resilience, especially in the deciding set.
• The last all-British team to win at Flushing Meadows was in 1903.

Match Overview

The final, held at Flushing Meadows from 24 August to 7 September, showcased a high level of play. Salisbury and Skupski, who only teamed up at the start of 2025, displayed strong synergy and skill, especially in the first set. Their performance was highlighted by a crucial break during Zeballos's service game, allowing them to take the first set 6-3.

Opening Set Dominance

In the first set, Salisbury and Skupski capitalised on a poor service game from Zeballos, breaking serve at 5-3 and closing it out confidently. Their teamwork was evident, with effective communication and strategic plays that kept Granollers and Zeballos on the back foot. The British pair seemed poised to take the title as they maintained their momentum into the second set.

Second Set Tension and Turnaround

As the second set unfolded, it became clear that the contest was far from over. Salisbury and Skupski had opportunities to take control, leading 0-40 on Granollers's serve at 3-3. However, the Spanish player demonstrated remarkable resilience, holding serve and shifting the momentum. The second set ultimately went to a tie-break, where Salisbury faltered, dropping serve twice and allowing Granollers and Zeballos to level the match.

Decisive Moments in the Third Set

Entering the final set, both pairs showcased their best tennis. Salisbury and Skupski successfully defended against break points until they led 5-4, where they found themselves with three championship points on Zeballos's serve. Unfortunately, they struggled with their returns, missing a critical opportunity to clinch the title.

Final Game and Emotions

In a surprising turn, Skupski was broken in the next game, allowing Granollers to serve for the championship. The emotional weight of the match was palpable as Skupski expressed his frustration, jokingly saying, "I am starting to dislike you guys! Why not make it Australia? We will go again." This light-hearted comment masked the disappointment of narrowly missing out on a historic victory.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

This loss at the US Open adds to the growing rivalry between the two pairs, with Salisbury and Skupski now having lost all three Grand Slam finals against Granollers and Zeballos in 2025. Their journey to the final, however, has been a remarkable achievement for a team that only formed earlier this year.

As they look towards future tournaments, including the Australian Open, the British pair will be eager to convert their potential into a title. Their consistent performance suggests that they are on the verge of breaking through, and with a few adjustments, they can turn the tide in future encounters.

What’s Next for Salisbury and Skupski?

Looking ahead, Salisbury and Skupski will need to analyse their performance from the US Open final and learn from their mistakes. They have shown they can compete with the best, and with continued practice and teamwork, they may soon claim their first Grand Slam title together.

Potential Adjustments

• Improving serve returns to capitalise on championship points.
• Enhancing communication during critical moments of the match.
• Focusing on mental fortitude in high-pressure situations.

FAQs

When did Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski team up?

Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski teamed up at the start of 2025, aiming to create a successful partnership in men's doubles tennis.

How many Grand Slam finals have Salisbury and Skupski lost to Granollers and Zeballos?

As of the US Open 2025, Salisbury and Skupski have lost all three Grand Slam finals they have played against Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos.

What was the score in the US Open men's doubles final?

The final score of the US Open men's doubles final was 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-5 in favour of Granollers and Zeballos.

What is the historical significance of the all-British team in the US Open?

The last all-British pair to win the men's doubles title at the US Open was in 1903, making Salisbury and Skupski's quest for the title particularly historic.

What are the next tournaments for Salisbury and Skupski?

Salisbury and Skupski will be looking forward to participating in the Australian Open, where they aim to secure their first Grand Slam title together.

As the tennis season progresses, one cannot help but wonder if Salisbury and Skupski will finally turn their fortune around and claim the Grand Slam title they so desperately seek. Will they learn from their near-misses and come back stronger? Only time will tell. #Tennis #USOpen2025 #SalisburySkupski