Emma Raducanu is set to pair up with Carlos Alcaraz for the mixed doubles at this year’s US Open, and the British number one has revealed some insight into the pair’s likeness.
Raducanu, who recently became British number one again after a two-year absence, will compete against the likes of Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek and Jack Draper at the revamped tournament.
The Brit, who recently teamed up with good friend Katie Boulter at the Queen’s Club Championships, discussed her future doubles partnership with Alcaraz.
Emma Raducanu says she and Carlos Alcaraz are at their best when enjoying playing tennis
Speaking to the Daily Express, Raducanu said: “I think in that sense, we are quite similar. We both play our best I think when we’re in a good creative way, we’re enjoying it. You see us smile on the court and have fun and really just lean into those positive emotions.
“And I think whenever I have played with, you know, trying to channel any negativity or any of that kind of energy, I don’t do so well, and other players might be different, but for me, I need to be in that kind of pretty positive and creative way.”
Alcaraz won a second Queen’s Club Championship on Sunday after defeating Czechia’s Jiri Lehecka in the final and will be looking to add a third straight Wimbledon crown to his collection in July.
Recently, Pat Cash said it used to be ‘almost impossible’ to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year – something which Alcaraz could do for a second consecutive year.
Emma, who enjoyed her own Grand Slam success at the US Open in 2022, continued: “And I think that is in a way, when I see him [Alcaraz] play, he’s always got a smile on his face and enjoying it and that’s I feel like why he’s able to do such crazy shots, turn points around that he’s maybe not favoured to and pull out these ridiculous shots because it’s like a coming from a place of curiosity.
“Like, what can I do with this? You know, like, can I turn this point around? It’s amazing to have that on the men’s side and take inspiration when I can.”
Emma Raducanu prepares for first match at Eastbourne Open
After her Queen’s Club appearance, Raducanu has travelled to East Sussex to compete in the Eastbourne Open.
After Dan Evans issued a rallying cry to the crowd for his upcoming match against Tommy Paul, Emma will be hoping for a raucous crowd in her match against American Ann Li.
The match is set to get underway at 12:10 pm on Tuesday.
