The tennis world has been abuzz with whispers of romance between two of its brightest stars, Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz, ever since their mixed doubles partnership for the 2025 US Open was announced. The speculation reached a fever pitch as the pair, both 22, were spotted together at events, from a pre-Wimbledon Evian activation to Raducanu cheering Alcaraz on during his semifinal triumph at the Queen’s Club Championships in June 2025. Yet, in a candid moment during a pre-Wimbledon press conference on June 28, 2025, Raducanu put the rumors to rest with a warm smile and a clear message: “We’re just good friends.” Her cheeky response, followed by a playful jab at the moderator’s attempt to wrap up the topic—“Way to wrap up!”—charmed the room and underscored the genuine camaraderie she shares with the Spanish superstar.
Raducanu and Alcaraz’s friendship traces back to 2021, a pivotal year for both. At just 18, Raducanu made waves at Wimbledon, reaching the fourth round as a wildcard before retiring due to breathing difficulties. Alcaraz, meanwhile, announced his arrival with a gritty five-set win in the first round, setting the stage for his breakout US Open run later that year. “We go back a long way,” Raducanu shared with the BBC on June 24, 2025. “I think we both started to get to know each other a lot more in 2021 when I had that little run at Wimbledon.” Their shared experience as teenagers navigating the sport’s biggest stages forged a bond that has endured, even as Alcaraz claimed five Grand Slam titles, including his second French Open in June 2025, and Raducanu battled injuries to climb back to world number 38.
The announcement of their US Open mixed doubles pairing in August 2025 sent social media into a frenzy, with fans dubbing them a potential “tennis power couple.” Alcaraz, fresh off his Queen’s Club title, revealed he initiated the partnership. “I have a really good relationship with her,” he said, noting that the decision was “really fun” and rooted in their longstanding connection. Raducanu, flattered by the invitation, recalled, “He asked me earlier on in the year, and I was very surprised and honored and obviously excited.” Her coach’s approval sealed the deal, and she added, “Of course I was going to say yes.” Their chemistry was evident during a lighthearted practice session at Wimbledon, where they honed volleys together, laughing and exchanging tips ahead of their New York debut.
Despite the internet’s enthusiasm—Raducanu quipped, “I’m glad the internet is having fun and we’re providing some entertainment for everyone”—the pair have consistently emphasized their platonic bond. Alcaraz, who has openly shared his single status, told The Sunday Times in June 2024, “It can be difficult as a tennis player to meet the right person because you are traveling all the time.” His focus remains on his craft, with a stellar 2025 Wimbledon campaign that saw him reach the Round of 16, though he fell to Jannik Sinner in the final. Raducanu, meanwhile, faced a straight-sets loss to the top seed at Wimbledon but drew inspiration from Alcaraz’s matches. “The last couple of matches I’ve been following Carlos, and it’s just good to watch before my own match,” she said, admitting she tries to emulate his dynamic shot-making.
Their friendship, rooted in mutual respect, stands out in the high-pressure world of professional tennis. “He’s done so well obviously since and continued winning,” Raducanu said, reflecting on Alcaraz’s meteoric rise. “It’s been amazing to see because we were speaking and friends before anyone won anything.” Alcaraz returned the admiration, praising her game to Hypebeast: “She plays great. She’s struggling a little bit lately, but I’m pretty sure that she’s gonna get there. Her game is pretty high.” As they prepare to team up at Flushing Meadows, starting August 24, 2025, their partnership promises to blend Raducanu’s resilience with Alcaraz’s explosive talent. While the internet may hope for romance, Raducanu and Alcaraz are content to let their friendship—and their rackets—do the talking.
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