**Emma Raducanu Dispels Speculation Over Carlos Alcaraz Relationship Ahead of US Open Mixed Doubles Partnership**
In an era where viral rumours can take on a life of their own through social media, British tennis star Emma Raducanu has spoken out candidly to put to bed speculation linking her with fellow player, Carlos Alcaraz. The pair, both high-profile athletes on the international circuit, found themselves the subject of widespread gossip after being spotted together at the All England Club during a promotional engagement for Evian. With their newly announced mixed doubles partnership at the US Open on the horizon, curiosity over the nature of their association has intensified — but Raducanu was keen to clarify the reality of their rapport.
Addressing the murmurs at a pre-tournament press conference, Raducanu responded with characteristic composure. “We’re just good friends,” she stated plainly, offering a smile that underscored her relaxed attitude towards the speculation. As the media session concluded, she quipped, “What a way to wrap up,” subtly nodding to the persistent rumour mill that often surrounds high-profile athletes.
The seeds of the rumour appear to have been sown following joint promotional work for Evian at Wimbledon, where Raducanu and Alcaraz were seen together both on and off the court. Their camaraderie was evident as they undertook volley practice, captured by cameras and quickly spread across various online platforms. Speaking about the experience, Raducanu described it as “fun”, reiterating that their on-court chemistry is grounded in professional respect and a mutual enthusiasm for the sport. “We were just getting some volley practice in ahead of New York,” she explained, referencing their impending US Open collaboration.
As Raducanu prepares to embark upon her latest Wimbledon campaign, she appears to be keeping her focus firmly on her tennis rather than any external distractions. The 22-year-old, who shot to global prominence with her US Open victory in 2021, is set to face teenage British wildcard Mimi Xu in the opening round. However, Raducanu has been open about her modest expectations for this year’s tournament, citing recent challenges both physical and mental.
“Truthfully, I don’t expect much from myself this year,” Raducanu admitted, reflecting on her approach to Wimbledon 2025. She pointed out the rarity and privilege of playing at the iconic venue, signalling her intention to “embrace the moment” regardless of the outcome. “You get it once a year and for a finite amount of time. I’m just looking forward to going out there and feeling the surroundings and the atmosphere,” she added, highlighting an appreciation for the opportunity rather than preoccupation with results.
Besides the inevitable pressures that come with public scrutiny, Raducanu has also been contending with a lingering back injury. The challenge re-emerged during her quarter-final defeat against Qinwen Zheng at Queen’s Club, casting a shadow over her grass court season. More recently, Raducanu faced a tough exit in the second round at Eastbourne, leaving her with little time for rest or recovery before Wimbledon.
“I had one day off after Eastbourne, which is not much time,” she cited, giving an insight into the relentless nature of the tour. Nonetheless, Raducanu remains determined, saying, “Right now I’m just happy to be at Wimbledon. That is a great kind of motivation to just keep going, and deal with everything else afterwards.”
When it comes to managing her back condition, Raducanu is pragmatic, revealing it is an ongoing challenge rather than something that can be resolved overnight. “I wouldn’t say it’s 100 per cent, but a lot of the time with tennis players, nothing is ever 100 per cent,” she reflected, a sentiment shared by many athletes who play through discomfort as a matter of course.
Raducanu’s experience serves as a reminder of the demands placed on modern tennis players, who must balance rigorous schedules, physical strain, and intense public scrutiny. While the spotlight may linger on off-court partnerships and the human stories that surround the athletes, Raducanu appears resolute in maintaining her focus and perspective — both on and off the court. As for her friendship with Alcaraz, she hopes fans and pundits alike will take her words at face value as she looks forward to a summer of high-stakes tennis and new sporting challenges.