Emma Raducanu, British No. 1, opened up about her “genuine connection” with Carlos Alcaraz, world No. 2, in an interview with Express while preparing for the Lexus Eastbourne Open, per The Guardian. Reflecting on their upcoming US Open mixed doubles partnership, announced for August 19-20, Raducanu emphasized their bond, forged during their breakout runs at the 2021 Wimbledon and US Open. “I’ve known him for years… Wimbledon 2021 was the first time I started getting to know him, and then again at the US Open in 2021. He was always playing the day before me, and I’d see him win, which motivated me,” she said, per Tennis365. Alcaraz’s third-round upset of Stefanos Tsitsipas at the 2021 US Open was a “breakout win” that inspired Raducanu’s historic title as a qualifier, per Daily Mail.
Raducanu, who watched Alcaraz’s Queen’s Club semifinal win on June 21, praised his positivity, noting, “He’s so nice, very happy, amazing values, and just a really positive light to be around,” per Tennis World USA. Their friendship, rooted in junior days, has fueled fan excitement, with X posts like @TheTennisLetter quoting Raducanu: “To share the court together is something really special,” per. Despite romantic rumors, both have clarified their relationship is platonic, with Raducanu joking about keeping Alcaraz “on his toes” by delaying her doubles confirmation to consult her team, per Wales Online. As Raducanu manages back spasms and Alcaraz eyes Wimbledon, starting June 30, their “Alcaranu” partnership promises a vibrant dynamic, per BBC Sport.
