**Emma Raducanu Interview Abruptly Halted Following Probing Question About Carlos Alcaraz Rumours**
Emma Raducanu found herself the centre of an unexpected media storm this weekend, as her pre-Wimbledon press conference was cut short after she was asked directly about her relationship with fellow tennis star Carlos Alcaraz. The young British No.1, who is preparing for her Wimbledon campaign, was quick to dispel any rumours suggesting her friendship with the Spanish world No.3 is anything more than platonic.
Raducanu, aged 22, is set to begin her Wimbledon run by facing teenage wildcard Mimi Xu in the first round. While anticipation is high for her performance on the grass courts, much of the conversation leading up to the tournament has instead been dominated by curiosity about her connection with Alcaraz. Speculation has intensified after news broke of their upcoming mixed doubles partnership at the US Open later this year.
The pair were seen sharing the court at a recent promotional event at Wimbledon, which was organised in conjunction with their sponsor Evian. The images, which circulated widely on social media, lent fuel to ongoing speculation. Addressing these rumours at her press conference, Raducanu maintained a relaxed composure, choosing humour to diffuse the situation when asked if strategic planning for New York had already begun.
“It was just a bit of fun yesterday,” Raducanu told reporters, referring to the practice session with Alcaraz. “We were both with Evian, just getting some volley practice in for the US Open mixed doubles. I’m looking forward to playing with him — we had a great time out there,” she added, steering the conversation firmly towards the sporting context.
However, questions soon shifted to persistent rumours about a budding romance between the two players. When pressed on the subject, Raducanu burst out laughing before clarifying emphatically: “We’re just good friends.” At this point, the press conference moderator intervened, swiftly suggesting the discussion should be wrapped up, prompting further laughter from Raducanu, who quipped, “Way to wrap up!” to lighten the mood in the room.
Beyond the headlines, Raducanu offered some insight into her long friendship with Alcaraz, which dates back to her breakout moment at Wimbledon in 2021. She recalled how their paths first crossed more meaningfully that summer, and described the mutual encouragement they shared during major tournaments. “I’ve known him for years,” she explained. “During Wimbledon in 2021, that was when I really got to know him, and again at the US Open afterwards. We kept in touch and there was always a sense of motivation drawn from each other’s success,” she continued.
Raducanu reminisced about watching Alcaraz achieve a significant win over Stefanos Tsitsipas, recalling it as a pivotal moment in both their careers. “He would play the day before me and win. I’d watch that and it would give me a boost. Those were exciting times, and having that consistent connection is something I really value,” said Raducanu.
She went on to highlight the significance of genuine friendships formed early in their careers, unequivocally stating that despite being at the centre of international attention, the bond they share remains purely supportive and grounded in mutual respect. “He’s obviously overtaken me in the rankings, but it’s great to have maintained that connection. Friendships you build early on tend to last longer, and they’re more authentic.”
The decision by the conference moderator to call time on the awkward line of questioning reflects the ongoing challenge athletes face as they juggle both sporting expectations and relentless public scrutiny. With the opening round of Wimbledon imminent, Raducanu is clearly keen to keep her focus firmly on the tennis, expressing a desire for the conversation to shift away from off-court dramas and back to her pursuit of sporting glory.
As one of Britain’s brightest sporting talents, Raducanu continues to attract widespread attention both for her achievements on the court and her personal life. For now, she remains resolute in keeping her friendships and future mixed doubles plans exactly where she wants them: in the spirit of good sport and camaraderie, not tabloid intrigue.