Concerns are mounting over the anticipated mixed doubles partnership between Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz ahead of the US Open, scheduled to begin on August 24, 2025. The British No. 1 and the Spanish world No. 2 were set to team up for the revamped mixed doubles event during Fan Week (August 19-20), a format introduced by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) with a £742,000 prize for winners to attract high-profile players. However, fears of a potential withdrawal have surfaced, driven by recent developments and the pair’s current physical and scheduling priorities.
Alcaraz’s recent withdrawal from the Canadian Open, announced on July 21, 2025, to manage “small muscle issues” and recover mentally after his Wimbledon final loss, has raised doubts about his readiness for doubles. He expressed this need on social media, stating, “I have small muscle issues and I need to recover physically and mentally for what comes next.” This follows a grueling season with titles at the French Open and Queen’s Club, suggesting he might prioritize singles, where he defends just 60 points, over the added strain of doubles. Raducanu, ranked No. 39 after her Citi DC Open quarter-final run, also faces pressure, having historically withdrawn from doubles commitments—like abandoning Andy Murray at Wimbledon 2024—to focus on singles, where she defends her 2021 title.
Their combined singles ranking (No. 39 and No. 2) may not secure an automatic spot among the top eight pairs, likely necessitating a wildcard, which adds uncertainty given the USTA’s efforts to lock in confirmed lineups. Reports suggest both players are considering concentrating fully on singles at Flushing Meadows, especially with Alcaraz’s recent fatigue and Raducanu’s need for deeper tournament runs to boost her ranking. Posts found on X reflect growing sentiment about potential pullouts, with some fans speculating logistical challenges, though these remain unconfirmed.
The partnership, which Alcaraz initiated with a personal invitation and Raducanu accepted after team consultation, had generated excitement, with Alcaraz joking, “She’s going to be the boss.” Their long-standing friendship, dating back to the 2021 US Open, and recent courtside interactions at Queen’s Club had fueled optimism. However, the high-profile withdrawals of other pairs, such as Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa, amplify concerns. As of 06:28 PM WAT on Friday, July 25, 2025, no official withdrawal has been announced, but the combination of injury risks, singles focus, and wildcard dependency casts a shadow over their anticipated “Alcaranu” debut, leaving tennis fans awaiting clarity as the event nears.
