Emma Raducanu, British No. 1, responded with a playful giggle to persistent romance rumors linking her with Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 2, during a press conference in Eastbourne, saying, “It’s hilarious how people run with these stories. Carlos and I are just mates, always have been since juniors,” per Daily Mail. The speculation, fueled by her presence at Alcaraz’s Queen’s Club semifinal win on June 21 and their announced US Open mixed doubles partnership for August 19-20, was dismissed as “entertaining nonsense,” with Raducanu emphasizing their friendship, per Express. Alcaraz echoed this, stating, “We’re good friends, nothing more,” per Mundo Deportivo.
Raducanu also stirred controversy by sidestepping questions on WTA-ATP pay equality, saying, “I’m not getting into that—it’s not my place,” per The Mirror. Her reluctance drew criticism from fans and Coco Gauff, who advocated for better marketing to close the prize money gap, per The Guardian. Raducanu’s focus remains on Eastbourne and Wimbledon, starting June 30, despite ongoing back spasms, with X posts like @TennisTalkDaily noting the contrast with Gauff’s outspokenness, per. Her “giddy” demeanor over the Alcaraz rumors, captured by @TrackerTennis, highlights her ability to stay lighthearted amid pressure, per BBC Sport.
On June 24, 2025, Emma Raducanu, British No. 1, addressed and laughed off romance rumors with Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 2, in an interview with The Times, saying, “Glad we’re providing entertainment, but we’re just good friends,” per Express. The speculation intensified after Raducanu was spotted cheering Alcaraz’s 6-4, 6-4 semifinal win at Queen’s Club on June 21, fueled by their announced US Open mixed doubles partnership for August 19-20, per The Guardian. Social media buzz, including posts from @TennisFanaticUK calling the rumors “nonsense narrative,” prompted Raducanu’s playful response, per Sportskeeda.
Raducanu, who delayed confirming the doubles partnership to consult her team, emphasized their long-standing friendship from junior days, stating, “Carlos and I have known each other since we were kids. It’s just fun to team up,” per Daily Mail. Alcaraz echoed her sentiment at Queen’s, saying, “I’m just glad she came to support,” and dismissed romantic speculation, per Mundo Deportivo. Their “Alcaranu” pairing has sparked excitement, with fans on X, like @TrackerTennis, praising their chemistry, per. As Raducanu prepares for Eastbourne, managing back spasms, and Alcaraz eyes a third straight Wimbledon title, starting June 30, their focus remains professional, per BBC Sport.
