As the 2025 US Open approaches, Emma Raducanu is generating buzz not only for her singles campaign but also for her high-profile partnership with Carlos Alcaraz in the revamped mixed doubles event. The British No. 1, who made history as the 2021 US Open singles champion, is set to team up with the five-time Grand Slam winner for a star-studded two-day tournament on August 19-20, before the main draw begins on August 24. However, Raducanu has candidly admitted to a touch of nerves about facing the powerful serves of male players, particularly American star Ben Shelton. “Ben Shelton’s serve, that scares me. That’s probably one in particular,” she said with a laugh, highlighting the unique challenge of the mixed doubles format.
The US Open’s mixed doubles event has undergone a dramatic overhaul this year, moving from a traditional week-long tournament to a condensed, high-energy spectacle during Fan Week. With a $1 million prize for the winning pair, the event has attracted a glittering lineup of singles stars, including Iga Swiatek with Casper Ruud, Jannik Sinner with Emma Navarro, and Novak Djokovic with Olga Danilovic. Raducanu and Alcaraz, both former US Open champions, secured a wildcard entry, as their combined singles rankings didn’t qualify them for direct entry. The format, featuring first-to-four-game sets, no-ad scoring, and a 10-point tiebreak instead of a third set, promises fast-paced, thrilling matches. “It’s such a unique opportunity,” Raducanu enthused, acknowledging the excitement of competing alongside Alcaraz in this innovative setup.
Raducanu’s apprehension about facing male servers like Shelton, whose 143 mph ace was the fastest at last year’s US Open, is understandable. She also singled out Reilly Opelka, joking, “He’s serving from a stepladder. It’s incredible.” Returning serves from players known for their power is a daunting prospect, especially for female players unaccustomed to facing such velocity in doubles. “It’s very difficult to return their serves,” Raducanu admitted, noting that many WTA players likely share her trepidation. Despite these challenges, her excitement for the event is palpable, fueled by her longstanding friendship with Alcaraz, forged during their breakout runs at the 2021 US Open. “I have a really good relationship with her, so it’s going to be interesting,” Alcaraz said, adding that he made a “special request” through their agents to team up, with Raducanu playfully dubbed “the boss” of their partnership.
The 22-year-old Brit has been in strong form leading up to Flushing Meadows. Her recent performances include a semi-final run at the Washington Open, where she also reached the doubles semi-finals alongside Elena Rybakina, and a competitive third-round loss to Aryna Sabalenka at the Cincinnati Open. These results have boosted her to No. 9 in the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR), reflecting her resurgent form after injury-plagued seasons. “I’m just trying to focus on my game and keep improving,” Raducanu said, emphasizing her commitment to her new coaching setup with Francisco Roig, formerly Rafael Nadal’s coach. Her preparation for the mixed doubles event includes honing her doubles skills, as seen in Washington, where she gained valuable experience returning against top players.
The mixed doubles event has sparked controversy, with doubles specialists like Kateřina Siniaková criticizing its focus on singles stars. “When two world number ones in doubles don’t get into the tournament, there’s probably nothing more to say about it,” Siniaková remarked, highlighting the exclusion of traditional doubles pairs. Despite this, the USTA’s bold move aims to elevate the event’s visibility, with matches set for Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadiums, broadcast by ESPN. Raducanu, no stranger to the spotlight, reflected on the pressures of fame: “It’s really freaky,” she said of the media scrutiny she’s faced since her 2021 triumph, yet she remains resilient, declaring, “I am tough.”
As Raducanu and Alcaraz prepare to take on formidable pairs like Taylor Townsend and Ben Shelton or Venus Williams and Reilly Opelka, their chemistry and star power make them a duo to watch. With Raducanu’s return game and Alcaraz’s all-court brilliance, they could pose a serious threat, provided they navigate those thunderous serves. The US Open’s reimagined mixed doubles event promises to blend sport and spectacle, and Raducanu’s blend of excitement and nerves sets the stage for a thrilling showcase in New York.
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