Why Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu’s US Open mixed doubles partnership is seemingly dead before it even starts
The highly anticipated mixed doubles partnership between Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu at the 2025 US Open, set for August 19-20 during Fan Week, is in jeopardy due to scheduling conflicts, physical demands, and Raducanu’s recent withdrawal from the singles event. The duo, both former US Open champions, were granted a wildcard for the revamped $1 million event, which features a fast-paced format with sets to four games and no-ad scoring. However, multiple factors have cast doubt on their participation, leading to speculation that the “Alcaranu” partnership may not materialize.
Raducanu’s withdrawal from the US Open singles, announced on August 15, 2025, due to ongoing recovery from 2023 wrist and ankle surgeries, is a significant blow. She stated, “I’m still not 100% recovered and need more time” (www.express.co.uk). This decision, reported by Express Sport, raises questions about her ability to compete in the physically demanding mixed doubles, especially against powerful servers like Ben Shelton, whose 150mph serves she admitted scare her (www.youtube.com). Raducanu’s limited match play, with only one lead-up event in Washington and a third-round loss to Aryna Sabalenka in Cincinnati (7-6(3), 4-6, 7-6(5)), underscores her cautious approach to recovery (www.tennisworldusa.org).
Alcaraz’s participation is also uncertain due to his deep run at the Cincinnati Open, where he reached the final against Jannik Sinner on August 18, 2025, leaving less than 20 hours to travel and prepare for the mixed doubles in New York (www.sportskeeda.com). The Spaniard, ranked No. 2, has faced fatigue concerns after grueling matches, including a semifinal against Alexander Zverev, who battled health issues (www.hindustantimes.com). Alcaraz’s recent defiance of an umpire’s request to cover his Evian bottle logo in Cincinnati, risking a fine, highlights the intense pressures he faces, which could impact his decision to play doubles (www.youtube.com).
The event’s timing, clashing with singles preparations, has already prompted withdrawals from players like Paula Badosa and Jack Draper (www.tennis365.com). Tennis legend Martina Navratilova criticized the format as “a mockery,” adding to the controversy (www.express.co.uk). Posts on X reflect fan disappointment, with one stating, “We are NOT getting Alcaraz-Raducanu doubles at US Open” (@orezteja, August 17, 2025) (@post:0). The situation mirrors strategic choices by athletes like Alex de Minaur and Alexei Popyrin, prioritizing the Davis Cup, or Luke Littler skipping the PDC World Youth Championship. With Raducanu’s injury concerns and Alcaraz’s tight schedule, the “Alcaranu” dream team appears unlikely to take the court.
