Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, candidly admitted to being “scared” about facing powerful male serves, particularly Ben Shelton’s, in the upcoming mixed doubles event at the 2025 US Open, set for August 19-20 during Fan Week. The 22-year-old British star, ranked No. 33, is partnered with Carlos Alcaraz for the controversial $1 million event, which features a fast-paced format with sets to four games and no-ad scoring. Despite her excitement, Raducanu’s comments reveal her apprehension about competing against top male players like Shelton and Reilly Opelka in this unique setting.
In a press conference reported by profootballnetwork.com, Raducanu was asked about facing men’s singles players in mixed doubles. She responded, “I think I’m most scared to play certain shots. Ben Shelton’s serve, that scares me. That’s probably one in particular. And then obviously all the guys. It’s very difficult to return their serves” (). Shelton’s serve, known for reaching speeds up to 150mph, was highlighted when he accidentally struck a fan with one at the Citi DC Open, underscoring its potency (). Raducanu also humorously noted Opelka’s height advantage, saying, “Reilly Opelka? He’s serving from a stepladder. It’s incredible” (). Despite her nerves, she expressed enthusiasm, adding, “I’m very excited. It’s such a unique opportunity, and I think a lot of the females will probably be feeling the same way” ().[]
However, Raducanu’s participation is in doubt after her withdrawal from the US Open singles on August 15, 2025, due to ongoing wrist and ankle injuries from 2023 surgeries (www.express.co.uk). This decision, coupled with Alcaraz’s tight schedule following his Cincinnati Open final on August 18, threatens their “Alcaranu” partnership (). The event has sparked controversy, with Martina Navratilova calling it “a mockery” (www.express.co.uk), and other withdrawals, like Paula Badosa’s, highlight scheduling challenges (). Raducanu’s fears mirror the strategic choices of athletes like Alex de Minaur and Alexei Popyrin, prioritizing Davis Cup, or Luke Littler skipping the PDC World Youth Championship. Fans on X are split, with one post stating, “Emma’s honesty about Shelton’s serve is hilarious but real” (@MSports_all, August 17, 2025) (), while another doubts the event’s feasibility: “Alcaraz and Raducanu doubles probably won’t happen” (@orezteja, August 17, 2025) (@post:0).
