Emma Raducanu is making waves at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open, turning heads both on and off the court as she teams up with an unexpected new doubles partner, Elena Rybakina. The 22-year-old British star, ranked No. 45, arrived in Washington, D.C., for the WTA 500 event starting today, July 21, 2025, showcasing a fresh approach to her game. After a promising Wimbledon third-round run, where she defeated 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova before falling to Aryna Sabalenka, Raducanu is kicking off her North American hard-court swing with renewed vigor. Her decision to compete in both singles and doubles has sparked excitement, with her partnership with the 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina stealing the spotlight.
In singles, Raducanu faces a tough first-round test against seventh-seeded Marta Kostyuk, a rematch of their recent Madrid Open clash won by Kostyuk. However, it’s her doubles debut with Rybakina that’s generating buzz. The duo, both Grand Slam singles titlists but novices in doubles, will take on the fourth-seeded pair of Tereza Mihalíková and Olivia Nicholls in their opening match on July 22. This unexpected alliance, dubbed “Team Rybacanu” by fans, blends Raducanu’s raw potential with Rybakina’s power, though their inexperience—Raducanu has played just three pro doubles matches—adds intrigue. Posts found on X highlight the excitement, with some calling it a “powerful team” poised to challenge the experienced field.
Off the court, Raducanu has charmed onlookers with her sightseeing adventures in D.C., sharing Instagram glimpses of her exploration, including a mouthwatering meal that caught Nick Kyrgios’s attention with a playful “I need to know” comment. This blend of professionalism and personality has endeared her to fans, especially as she navigates a coaching transition with Mark Petchey. Her doubles venture also aligns with rumors of a potential US Open mixed doubles pairing with Carlos Alcaraz, suggesting a strategic move to gain match experience. As the tournament unfolds at 10:13 AM WAT, Raducanu’s new partnership with Rybakina promises to be a highlight, potentially reshaping her comeback narrative.
