Emma Raducanu is set to compete against Jack Draper in the US Open mixed doubles, but concerns have arisen about her partnership with Carlos Alcaraz materializing. Fans were thrilled to learn about Raducanu and Alcaraz teaming up for the new format in New York. The United States Tennis Association has organized the doubles event before the singles, offering a lucrative $1 million prize to attract top players.
However, a scheduling change that initially brought excitement by forming dynamic partnerships could now jeopardize their participation. This is due to the fact that Alcaraz is preparing to face Jannik Sinner in the Cincinnati Open final, leading to a tight turnaround.
The Cincinnati Open has been extended past its usual Sunday conclusion, with the top two male tennis stars set to clash on Monday night instead. Given the history of intense matches between Alcaraz and Sinner, there is a possibility that the Spaniard might have to withdraw from partnering with Raducanu.
The flight between Cincinnati, Ohio, and New York is approximately two hours, and the mixed doubles are scheduled to commence at 11 a.m. local time on Tuesday. The two-day event will then progress to the semi-finals and final on Wednesday.
The official draw was unveiled on Sunday night, confirming Alcaraz and Raducanu’s participation. They are slated to face Draper and Jessica Pegula in an anticipated first-round match after their original partners, Tommy Paul and Paula Badosa, withdrew.
On the other hand, Sinner and Katerina Siniakova, in place of Emma Navarro, are expected to compete against Belinda Bencic and Alexander Zverev. The outcome of these matches remains uncertain.
Alcaraz chose to skip the Canadian Open to manage a minor injury following his Wimbledon final defeat and may prioritize rest and recovery ahead of the US Open singles. The potential absence of Raducanu and Alcaraz playing together would be disappointing, given their expressed enthusiasm for the pairing during Wimbledon.
Alcaraz expressed his excitement about the opportunity presented by the US Open for mixed doubles alongside Raducanu, emphasizing their long-standing relationship and his eagerness to showcase his doubles skills for a chance at victory.