The US Open is buzzing with excitement as Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz take to the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium for their highly anticipated mixed doubles debut.
Fans have been eager to see the two former singles champions team up, especially as their first opponents include familiar face and British No.1 Jack Draper.
A Partnership Full of Sparks and Speculation
Raducanu and Alcaraz’s pairing instantly became the talk of the tournament when it was announced two weeks ago.
Dubbed “Raducaraz” by fans, the partnership has stirred both curiosity and excitement—not just for their talent, but also because of whispers about their off-court connection.
Raducanu was spotted cheering for Alcaraz during his Queen’s Club triumph in June, adding fuel to the speculation.
Both players have expressed genuine excitement about teaming up.
Raducanu praised their “genuine connection” on court, while Alcaraz, fresh from winning the Cincinnati Open, said he planned to let Raducanu “be the boss” when they step onto the court together.
First Steps on Court: Energy and Laughter
Walking onto the court, Raducanu and Alcaraz radiated enthusiasm, joking and chatting as the crowd cheered them on.
Even after dropping the first set, the duo maintained their energy, fist-bumping and celebrating impressive points, including a jaw-dropping shot from Alcaraz that left Draper’s partner, Jessica Pegula, stunned.
During changeovers, the pair huddled to discuss tactics, adapting to the pressure from Draper and his experienced doubles partner.
Their teamwork was clear, and their on-court chemistry made every point a thrill to watch.
A New Era for US Open Mixed Doubles
This year, the US Open mixed doubles format has been overhauled.
Instead of relying on doubles specialists, top singles players were invited to pair up for a chance at the eye-catching $1 million prize.
The event coincides with US Open Fan Week, offering spectators six days of top-tier tennis before the focus shifts to singles competition.
Both Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadiums have been packed with fans eager to see their favorite stars in action.
Other headline pairings include Iga Swiatek with Casper Ruud, Venus Williams with Reilly Opelka, and Draper teaming up with last year’s US Open finalist, Pegula, who hold the tournament’s No.1 seed.
Turbulence Before the First Serve
Despite the excitement, the competition has faced unexpected disruptions.
Injuries and scheduling conflicts have forced several top players to withdraw.
Aryna Sabalenka pulled out alongside partner Grigor Dimitrov, who was sidelined due to a Wimbledon injury.
Draper had to switch partners twice after Zheng Qinwen and Paula Badosa also withdrew.
The most high-profile late withdrawal came from world No.1 and defending US Open champion Jannik Sinner, who retired from the Cincinnati Open final due to illness and withdrew at the last minute.
Alcaraz’s Commitment Shines Through
Despite the chaos, Alcaraz remained committed to playing alongside Raducanu.
The 22-year-old flew into New York at 12:50 a.m. Monday after winning in Cincinnati, showing remarkable dedication.
In his post-final press conference, he made it clear nothing would stop him from playing:
“The scheduling isn’t ideal, playing tomorrow… but I love the concept of the tournament.
I’m going to have so much fun playing with Emma.
It’s going to be tough against Draper and Pegula, but I’ll enjoy it as much as I can.”
Alcaraz described the match as both a challenge and preparation, promising to bring his best tennis to help Raducanu secure a win.
Looking Ahead: Can They Follow in Swiatek’s Footsteps?
Fans will be watching closely to see if Raducanu and Alcaraz can emulate Swiatek and Ruud, who have already made it to the semi-finals.
Swiatek and Ruud defeated hometown favorites Frances Tiafoe and Madison Keys in the first round and later overcame Lorenzo Musetti and Caty McNally in the quarters.
With the crowd buzzing and two of the sport’s brightest young stars pairing up, the mixed doubles event promises thrilling tennis and plenty of memorable moments.
