Emma Raducanu, British No. 1, displayed her playful side during an Eastbourne press conference when confronted with fan theories suggesting she and Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 2, are “destined” to date, per Express. Raducanu, unable to contain her giggles, responded, “I’m glad the internet’s having fun and we’re providing some entertainment for everyone,” dismissing the rumors with humor, per. The speculation, fueled by her appearance at Alcaraz’s Queen’s Club semifinal win on June 21 and their announced US Open mixed doubles partnership for August 19-20, has created a buzz dubbed “Alcaranu,” per The Guardian.
Raducanu clarified their relationship, saying, “Carlos and I are just good friends, known each other since juniors,” emphasizing their platonic bond, per Daily Mail. Alcaraz echoed this sentiment, stating, “We’re mates, nothing more,” per Mundo Deportivo. Despite a parody account’s claim that Alcaraz’s Qatar Open loss was due to worry over Raducanu’s back injury, she brushed it off, saying, “It’s hilarious how people run with these stories,” per. X posts, like @TheTennisLetter, captured her lighthearted response, amplifying fan amusement, per. As Raducanu prepares for Eastbourne and Wimbledon, starting June 30, managing back spasms, her candid reaction underscores her ability to stay grounded amid hype, per BBC Sport.
