**Carlos Alcaraz Shares Insights on His Connection with Emma Raducanu Ahead of US Open Mixed Doubles**
A high-profile partnership for the upcoming US Open has captured the imaginations of tennis fans across the world, as reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz and British star Emma Raducanu prepare to join forces in the tournament’s mixed doubles event. The move has not only ignited excitement for the new format but has also placed the duo under the media spotlight due to their warm relationship and persistent rumours about a romantic link between the pair.
Alcaraz, who recently sailed through the opening round of the men’s singles at Queen’s Club, has spoken candidly about how he and Raducanu became partners for the US Open’s revamped mixed doubles competition. According to the 22-year-old Spaniard, the idea emerged after tournament organisers reached out to suggest interesting team-ups for the upcoming event. The initiative has drawn interest due to its fresh approach and significant cash prize, with $1 million (approximately £750,000) awaiting the winning pair.
Describing how the partnership was formed, Alcaraz admitted he made a personal appeal to secure Raducanu as his doubles partner. “I just asked Emma if she would like to play with me,” Alcaraz revealed, before joking that she kept him in suspense before answering. “She took a while to get back to me, but not too long,” he recounted lightheartedly, adding a layer of friendly banter to their budding on-court alliance.
With the pair having known each other for several years through the tennis circuit, Alcaraz said he felt they would make an excellent partnership. “We have a good relationship, and I think it’s going to be fun. I’ve known Emma for a really long time. I couldn’t think of a better person to share the court with in this format,” he added, underlining his high regard for the British player.
The Spaniard also provided insight into the dynamic he expects for the team. “On court, she’s going to be the boss,” joked Alcaraz, who is known for both his powerful play and his affable nature. “We’ll give it everything and, of course, we want to win, but the most important thing is to enjoy the experience.” His comments suggest a mix of competitive spirit and camaraderie as they prepare to take to the courts together in August.
Their joint entry is not without competition; other mixed pairings expected to draw attention include Jack Draper alongside Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen, and men’s world number one Jannik Sinner partnering Emma Navarro. Despite there being no guarantee of qualification—only 16 teams will make the final cut, with entries open until late July—the prospect of Alcaraz and Raducanu teaming up is already a major talking point.
Speculation about a romantic link between Raducanu and Alcaraz intensified last year, particularly when Raducanu was seen supporting Alcaraz at Centre Court during his Wimbledon title defence. Light-heartedly, Alcaraz commented on the matter, pondering whether Raducanu attended the final for the tennis or for him, but was quick to focus on the sporting spectacle, dismissing the rumours in good humour.
Notwithstanding the social media chatter, Alcaraz confirmed in a recent interview that he is currently single, though “open to the possibility of meeting someone”. He highlighted the challenges professional athletes face in establishing stable relationships, given the constant demands of international travel and competition schedules. “It’s difficult to find someone who can share your life when you’re always in different parts of the world,” he explained.
As anticipation grows for the new-look mixed doubles competition, tennis supporters are looking forward to seeing how this partnership will unfold—on and off the court. While the official entry list has yet to be finalised, the prospect of Alcaraz and Raducanu joining their talents is sure to be one of the highlights of this year’s US Open, both for the standard of tennis and the engaging personalities involved.