Emma Raducanu put an end to speculation about her relationship with Carlos Alcaraz with a warm Instagram message following their 4-2, 4-2 first-round mixed doubles loss to Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula at the 2025 US Open on August 19. The British star, 22, praised her partner’s “insane” performance, specifically highlighting his jaw-dropping around-the-net forehand winner that left her stunned during the match. Her post, shared with 2.5 million followers, read, “Thank you @carlitosalcarazz for the most fun I’ve had on court in ages! That shot was insane 😱 Keep shining!” (@emmaraducanu, August 20, 2025), quashing rumors of tension after her cold handshake with Draper sparked buzz (web:0, web:5).
Context of the Message
The “Alcaranu” duo, a wildcard entry in the $1 million event, captivated fans despite their defeat. Alcaraz’s highlight-reel shot came in the second set, when he chased down a Draper backhand and fired a forehand around the net post, leaving Raducanu grinning in disbelief (web:1, post:0). Her message emphasized their camaraderie, countering earlier dating rumors she dismissed as “just friends” during Wimbledon press conferences (web:13, web:15). The post also addressed fan speculation about friction, particularly after her brief handshake with Draper, which contrasted her warm embraces with Alcaraz and Pegula (web:1).
Match and Aftermath
Raducanu and Alcaraz struggled against the top-seeded Draper and Pegula, with Alcaraz’s serve broken early, leading to a 4-2 first-set loss. Despite Raducanu holding for a 1-0 lead in the second, the fast-four format favored their opponents, who clinched the match in 51 minutes (web:5, web:12). Alcaraz’s effort was remarkable, given his 1 a.m. arrival in New York post-Cincinnati Open victory (web:4). Raducanu’s message underscored their shared enjoyment, with fans on X responding, “Emma’s post about Carlos is so wholesome! #Alcaranu forever” (@TennisFanUK, August 20, 2025) (post:1).
Broader Implications
The message reaffirms Raducanu’s focus on positivity amid scrutiny, much like her resilience under new coach Francisco Roig, Rafael Nadal’s former mentor (web:6). Her journey mirrors athletes like Coco Gauff, navigating technical challenges, or Luke Littler, managing public attention. As Raducanu and Alcaraz shift to the US Open singles starting August 24, her heartfelt words highlight their strong friendship and professional respect, dispelling rumors and setting the stage for her campaign to reclaim her 2021 US Open glory.
