Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz granted wildcard as US Open confirms pairings for controversial mixed doubles event

Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz have been handed wildcard entries into the US Open’s mixed doubles draw, as the tournament confirmed the pairings for its new-look event — a move that has sparked both excitement and debate across the tennis world.

The 2021 US Open champion and the two-time Grand Slam winner will headline the mixed doubles field in New York, bringing major star power to a competition that has already attracted widespread attention since it was revamped for this year’s tournament.

A blockbuster wildcard pairing

Although Raducanu and Alcaraz will not play as a pair, their individual wildcard inclusions have instantly elevated the profile of the draw. With both players among the most popular and marketable athletes in tennis, organisers are hopeful their involvement will bring heightened global interest to the event.

For Raducanu, the wildcard marks another key opportunity to compete on one of her favourite stages as she continues to build momentum following a challenging period with injuries. For Alcaraz, it adds another layer to a packed US Open schedule, reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s biggest attractions.

Why is it controversial?

The mixed doubles event has been a talking point well before the first ball is hit, with debate centring on:

• Wildcards being awarded to marquee singles stars over traditional doubles specialists
• The increased commercial focus of the draw
• Concerns over workload for top players already navigating completed singles and doubles schedules
• Questions around whether the revamped format benefits sporting integrity or marketing interests

While mixed doubles has always carried strong fan appeal, critics argue that this year’s new structure leans more toward entertainment value than sporting balance.

Supporters, however, believe that attracting top singles talent can inject new energy into the format and create compelling match-ups that draw wider audiences to doubles tennis.

US Open defends its direction

Tournament organisers have yet to directly address the criticism, but their wildcard selections send a clear message: mixed doubles is being reimagined as a showcase event, and star power will be central to its success.

With Raducanu and Alcaraz now officially part of the draw, expectations — and viewership — are expected to surge.

New audience, new era?

Whether the changes represent an overdue evolution or a step too far toward exhibition tennis, one thing is certain: the 2025 US Open mixed doubles event will be one of the most talked-about storylines of the tournament.

For Raducanu and Alcaraz, it offers another spotlight moment. For the US Open, it’s a bold experiment. And for tennis fans, it guarantees intrigue long before the first serve.