As the tennis world gears up for the 2025 US Open, set to ignite Flushing Meadows from August 25 to September 7, the spotlight isn’t just on the court. Off-court buzz surrounding Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu has reached fever pitch, with fans and media speculating about a potential romance between the two young stars. Their announcement as mixed doubles partners for the upcoming US Open has fueled rumors, intensified by their frequent public appearances together and undeniable chemistry. Yet, both players have addressed the gossip, with Raducanu firmly stating, “We’re just good friends,” during a pre-Wimbledon press conference in June 2025. Despite their denials, the tennis world can’t stop talking about whether their bond extends beyond friendship.
Alcaraz, the 22-year-old Spanish sensation ranked world No. 2, and Raducanu, the 22-year-old British star ranked No. 40, share a history that dates back to 2021. That year, both made waves at Wimbledon—Raducanu as a wildcard reaching the fourth round, and Alcaraz battling through a five-set thriller in the first round. “We both started to get to know each other a lot more in 2021 when I had that little run at Wimbledon,” Raducanu shared with the BBC, recalling how their paths crossed. “Ever since, we’ve stayed in touch.” Their friendship deepened at the 2021 US Open, where Raducanu made history as the first qualifier to win a major, while Alcaraz’s breakout win over Stefanos Tsitsipas signaled his arrival. “He’s done so well obviously since and continued winning,” Raducanu added, praising Alcaraz’s meteoric rise to five Grand Slam titles, including the 2025 French Open.
The rumor mill kicked into high gear in June 2025 when the duo was spotted together at the Queen’s Club Championships. Raducanu was seen cheering Alcaraz from the stands, arriving minutes after him, and their playful interactions—laughing and joking—sparked whispers. “Emma and Carlos’ friendship was the talk of Queen’s,” an insider noted, hinting at a “spark” that left onlookers questioning. Their joint appearance at an Evian event, both ambassadors for the brand, further amplified speculation. Raducanu’s choice of a purple training top at Eastbourne, a color Alcaraz often sports, was interpreted by some as a subtle nod to their connection. When asked about their US Open partnership, Raducanu gushed, “He’s so nice, very happy, amazing values and just a really positive light to be around,” while Alcaraz told Hypebeast, “She plays great… I have a lot of confidence in her.”
Despite the buzz, both players have kept the narrative platonic. Alcaraz, who confirmed his single status in a 2024 interview with The Sunday Times, admitted, “It can be difficult as a tennis player to meet the right person because you are travelling all the time.” Raducanu, reflecting on her strict upbringing, told The Times, “My parents were very much against [boyfriends] as it interfered with training.” Her lighthearted response to the rumors—“I’m glad the internet is having fun and we’re providing some entertainment for everyone”—drew laughs at Wimbledon, where she and Alcaraz practiced together. The moderator’s swift end to relationship questions prompted Raducanu’s cheeky, “Way to wrap up!”
The US Open mixed doubles partnership, announced in June, has kept the spotlight on them. Alcaraz revealed he approached Raducanu earlier in 2025, saying, “I was very surprised and honored and obviously excited.” Raducanu, after consulting her coach, replied, “Of course I was going to say yes.” Their dynamic promises to be a highlight, with Alcaraz joking, “I’ll let her play, she’ll cover the court. I’ll do what she wants me to do.” Australian star Nick Kyrgios added fuel with a playful claim of a “love triangle” involving British player Jack Draper, though Raducanu’s camp dismissed it.
As Alcaraz chases a third straight Wimbledon title and Raducanu aims to rebuild after injuries, their friendship remains a focal point. With no confirmed romance, the tennis world watches eagerly to see if their on-court chemistry in New York sparks anything more.
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