“Emma Raducanu doesn’t need support” – Petkovic voices scathing criticism of ‘out of control’ media narrative about Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open arrival
Former tennis pro Andrea Petkovic sharply criticized the media’s “out of control” narrative suggesting Carlos Alcaraz rushed 600 miles from Cincinnati to New York to support Emma Raducanu at the 2025 US Open mixed doubles event. In a fiery post on X on August 22, 2025, Petkovic debunked headlines claiming Alcaraz’s travel was solely to aid Raducanu, calling them “very wrong and too dramatic” and emphasizing that Raducanu “doesn’t need someone to support her; she is strong on her own” (@andreapetkovic).
Petkovic’s Critique and Media Misstep
Petkovic targeted a specific headline: “CARLOS ALCARAZ MAKES 600 MILES DASH TO SUPPORT EMMA RADUCANU AFTER TIRING FINAL.” She clarified that Alcaraz’s trip on August 19, after winning the Cincinnati Open against Jannik Sinner (who retired at 5-0), was necessary for his US Open commitments, not a personal mission for Raducanu. She also dismissed the “tiring final” label, noting Sinner’s retirement made it a quick match, sarcastically adding, “If a 5:0 retirement is a tiring final to you… Did you know… they play best-of-5 in New York?” Petkovic urged fans to avoid clicking on sensationalist websites, highlighting the media’s exaggeration of the Alcaraz-Raducanu partnership.
Context of the “Alcaranu” Narrative
The “Alcaranu” duo, pairing 2021 US Open champion Raducanu with 2022 winner Alcaraz, sparked intense fan interest, with Google Trends showing a 2,250% spike in searches for “Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu” over the past 90 days. Their chemistry, evident in giggles and tactical discussions during their 4-2, 4-2 loss to Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula on August 19, fueled speculation of a romantic link, which Raducanu dismissed, saying, “We’re just good friends” (@emmaraducanu, June 28, 2025). Petkovic’s defense aligns with Raducanu’s stance, emphasizing her independence amid media-driven “shipping” narratives.
Broader Implications
Petkovic’s critique reflects broader tensions around media portrayal in sports, similar to Coco Gauff facing serving scrutiny or Luke Littler navigating darts criticism. The sensationalism surrounding Alcaraz and Raducanu mirrors the pressure on young athletes to manage public perception. As Raducanu shifts focus to her singles campaign, facing a tough draw with a potential Aryna Sabalenka quarterfinal, and Alcaraz aims for a second US Open title, Petkovic’s call for responsible reporting resonates. Fans on X echoed her sentiment, with one post stating, “Petkovic’s right—let Emma and Carlos play without the soap opera” (@TennisFanUK, August 22, 2025). The controversy underscores the need for accurate narratives as both players chase success at Flushing Meadows.
