While she’s still nursing a back issue, Emma Raducanu decided to spend her Saturday soaking up some tennis action rather than playing it.
The 2021 US Open champ was spotted at Queen’s Club, not with a racket in hand, but watching from the balcony alongside Myah Petchey—the daughter of her coach, Mark Petchey.
And the match on display? None other than her mixed doubles partner for the upcoming US Open, Carlos Alcaraz, taking on Roberto Bautista Agut.
Alcaraz Cruises Into Queen’s Final With Raducanu Watching
On court, Alcaraz didn’t disappoint. He swept aside fellow Spaniard Bautista Agut in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, to book his spot in the HSBC Championships final.
Off court, the cameras were just as focused on the balcony, where Raducanu was seen enjoying the action, cheering on her soon-to-be doubles teammate.
A Star Duo Set to Shine at the Revamped US Open Mixed Doubles
Earlier this week, the US Open unveiled details of its shiny new mixed doubles format for 2025—a revamped $1 million event that’s turning heads already.
Among the standout pairings? Alcaraz and Raducanu, two Grand Slam singles champions teaming up for what promises to be one of the tournament’s most talked-about duos.
Alcaraz Opens Up About How the Partnership Came to Be
Speaking about the exciting team-up, Alcaraz revealed he personally reached out to Raducanu.
“I was thinking that I couldn’t play better if it wasn’t with Emma,” he said.
“So I just asked her—special request.”
He joked that Raducanu didn’t say yes immediately: “She took a while… but not that much!” He grinned while adding, “She’s going to be the boss,” when asked how their dynamic might play out on court.
Mutual Respect and Long-Time Friendship Behind the Scenes
Their pairing isn’t just about star power—it’s backed by a genuine friendship.
Alcaraz shared that he’s known Raducanu for years and they’ve always had a good connection.
“We know each other well,” he said. “It’s going to be fun for sure.
We’ll try to win, but most of all we’ll enjoy it.”
Raducanu Keeps Eyes on Eastbourne Return Amid Injury Caution
Despite the excitement surrounding her mixed doubles debut in New York later this year, Raducanu is still being careful with her body.
She pulled out of the Berlin Open this week as a precaution after suffering back spasms.
But she’s planning to return at Eastbourne next week, where she’s drawn to play American Ann Li in the opening round.
Potential Showdown With Ons Jabeur on the Horizon
If Raducanu makes it past Li, she could face a much tougher test next—two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur.
That possible second-round clash adds even more intrigue to her return at Eastbourne, especially as fans look to see how her game holds up after some time off.
A Summer of Tennis and Chemistry Ahead
With her return to singles play lined up and a big-ticket doubles pairing already stealing headlines, Raducanu’s summer is shaping up to be one to watch.
Whether she’s courtside supporting Alcaraz or joining him on the same side of the net in New York, it’s clear Emma is at the heart of some of tennis’s most exciting storylines this season.