Carlos Alcaraz found himself momentarily wrong-footed off court after being asked to address persistent dating rumours involving British tennis star Emma Raducanu.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, widely regarded as one of the sport’s biggest global stars, has become accustomed to fielding questions about Grand Slams, rankings and titles — but his poise was put to the test when the topic sharply shifted toward his personal life during a recent media appearance in 2025.
A question he didn’t see coming
During a press session, Alcaraz was asked directly about ongoing speculation linking him romantically with Raducanu, 22, following a renewed wave of social media chatter from fans who noted their friendly interactions at earlier tournaments and shared promotional appearances in recent seasons.
Caught slightly off guard, the four-time Grand Slam champion paused and offered a polite but careful response.
“I mean… I’ve seen the rumours, yes,” Alcaraz said, smiling awkwardly.
“We get along really well. She’s a great player and a great person, but that’s it. Sometimes people create stories… but I just focus on tennis.”
Rather than diving into the gossip, Alcaraz kept his answer short, respectful and firmly neutral — a tactic seasoned public figures quickly learn to deploy when personal speculation goes viral.
Origins of the rumours
The renewed talk surfaced after:
- Fans circulated edited clips of Alcaraz and Raducanu chatting at past tournaments
- Social media posts highlighted coincidental training locations and overlapping schedules
- Supporters celebrated the idea of a “tennis power couple” again dominating fan forums
Despite the enthusiasm online, there has been no confirmation or credible evidence that the pair are dating, with both players previously keeping their personal lives private and separate from the spotlight.
Fans react — predictably
Social media, unsurprisingly, erupted after Alcaraz’s answer, with reactions ranging from amused to convinced the denial “meant nothing.”
One fan joked: “He answered like someone in a rom-com who definitely ends up with her in the sequel.”
Another wrote: “Respect the mindset. Grand Slams only.”
Eyes back on the ball
For Alcaraz, the real headlines in 2025 continue to revolve around big titles, blockbuster rivalries and his chase for further dominance at the top of the sport.
His brief detour into tabloid territory may have raised eyebrows — and sparked memes — but it didn’t rattle his message.
Tennis first. Everything else… well, awkwardly handled, politely dismissed, and firmly moved past.
