Carlos Alcaraz (22) and Emma Raducanu (22) did not meet the expectations they had coming into the US Open mixed doubles. The audience was eager to see them compete together for the first time, although what they didn't know is that it would also be the last, for now.
The tennis duo was the top favorite to win the title. The crowd erupted in applause as the pair entered the Arthur Ashe Stadium court (New York). However, they didn't last an hour on the court. They were defeated by the pair Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula in 50 minutes: defeat in two sets by 4-2 and 4-2. The Spaniard felt the fatigue from the 2025 Cincinnati Open final, held the day before where he was crowned champion, and the British athlete didn't have her best day. But still, the connection between them was more than evident, fueling further rumors of a possible romance between them.
Alcaraz made Raducanu laugh several times, advised her during the match, and had fun. Despite the result, they shared a warm hug after the match, congratulated their opponents for their great performance, and bid farewell to the attendees amidst a loud ovation.
The Spaniard had publicly expressed his desire to share the court with the promising tennis player. "I think it will be something new for me, something I love, and I will have a great time playing there with Emma," he declared before the tournament. Raducanu achieved a historic and unprecedented milestone in 2021, precisely at the US Open: winning the trophy without dropping a set at just 18 years old.
It was actually the Murcian who proposed forming a team. "Carlos sent me a message inviting me to play. It surprised me a lot and I was excited. Sharing the court with him will be something really special," Raducanu stated.
A few months ago, British media speculated about a possible romance between the two tennis players. The British player has been seen repeatedly in the stands watching and enjoying the Murcian's matches. And this striking union to face the tournament fueled the rumors.
Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz after winning a point in the match against Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper.Gtres
Raducanu came out to deny the reports of a possible relationship and clarified that they have had a friendship since 2021. "I am not aware of these rumors, but I'm glad people are having fun with it. Carlos has been a friend since 2021, and we have always supported each other," she told the BBC.