The U.S. Open's plan to make its mixed doubles championship a smaller, shorter event aimed at persuading top singles players to compete was criticized Tuesday by doubles specialists who figure to get shut out of the new format.

The US Open is adjusting its mixed doubles schedule and offering $1 million in prize money in an effort to persuade top singles players to compete in the event.

The U.S. Open mixed doubles competition will now be played before the singles main draw, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) said on Tuesday as it announced an overhaul of the category's format and an increase in prize money.