Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu’s dream of reclaiming the spotlight on New York’s legendary Arthur Ashe court vanished in less than an hour. What never faded, though, was the spark and chemistry between the two. Despite not winning the match, their connection illuminated the court with their exchange of looks, encouragement, and smiles, demonstrating that their enjoyment of every moment together in this US Open 2025 mixed doubles match was more important than the outcome.
Both of them already knew what it felt like to win the US Open, and the moment they stepped on court, they were greeted with an incredible ovation. The crowd was eager to see the big favorites, but the Spaniard and the Brit fell to Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula in two quick sets, 4-2 and 4-2, in barely 50 minutes. Beyond the points, the connection and positive rapport between Alcaraz and Raducanu stood out. Their chemistry was obvious in every break, with Carlos, always upbeat and attentive, giving Emma tactical advice to try and turn the match around while laughter and jokes flowed constantly. Their interaction showed not only teamwork but also a bond of trust and closeness that captured everyone’s attention.
Alcaraz had just arrived from Ohio, where he won the Cincinnati Masters 1000 after Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal. A bit tired but excited to play alongside Raducanu, he shared his thoughts: “I think it’ll be something new for me, something I’ll really enjoy, and I’m going to have a wonderful time playing there with Emma. It’s going to be tough against Draper and Pegula. I’ll try to enjoy it as much as possible. I’ll see how the court feels, the balls, everything. I’ll take it as very good and important preparation,” said the Spanish player.
Despite the loss, Alcaraz and Raducanu, both 22, never lost their joy. At the end of the match, they walked up to the net to congratulate their opponents and praised their effort and strong play. Both will now turn their focus to their singles campaigns at the North American Grand Slam.
A few months ago, rumors spread about a possible romance between Alcaraz and Raducanu, something the Brit firmly denied, clarifying that what connects them is simply a good friendship. It all began in June at Queen’s, where Alcaraz was crowned champion after a hard-fought final against Jiří Lehečka. Emma showed up to support him during some matches and even at his training sessions. According to The Sun, she was spotted watching him play on both Thursday and Sunday, and they were also seen together at the hotel, where they celebrated Carlitos’ victory. Inside, they were reportedly laughing, looking happy, and very relaxed. Following those encounters, their relationship became “the talk of the tournament.”
“I’ve known him for years. At Wimbledon 2021 was the first time I met him, and also at the US Open that same year. I remember he played before me, and I’d watch him win, and that motivated me to do the same,” she explained.
Since then, they’ve kept in touch, which is why the Murcian player asked her to team up at the US Open: “Carlos sent me a message inviting me to play. I was really surprised and excited. Sharing the court with him will be something truly special,” she said about partnering with Alcaraz, whom she openly admits she greatly admires.