The expectation for the Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz Couple at the content of the US Open men's couple is at risk of vanishing when the starting date is approaching. Although both have confirmed the plan of competition together, recent signs show that the possibility of them withdrawing is completely real.
This year's US Open has changed the formula for men and women: held a week before the men's menu and women's applications a week (August 19-20), only taking place in two days, and for 16 couples (8 prescribed rates, 8 solid capacity). This content champion will receive £ 742,000, an attractive figure to attract big names.
In fact, many notable couples have confirmed participation such as Jannik Sinner – Emma Navarro, Aryna Sabalenka – Grigor Dimitrov, Iga Swiatek – Casper Ruud, or Novak Djokovic – Olga Danilovic. However, some couples have retreated, typically Stefanos Tsitsipas – Paula Badosa, in the middle of rumors they broke up. Jack Draper and Zheng Qinwen also decided not to play.
According to The Sun, Raducanu and Alcaraz are also considering the ability to withdraw to focus on the application. This is not too surprising, especially when Alcaraz has just quit the Canadian tournament to rest after Wimbledon: “I have some muscle problems and need to recover both physically and mentally,” the Spanish player said.
Raducanu once refused to pair with Andy Murray at Wimbledon 2024 for the same reason. Moreover, with the Women's 46 Women's rankings, she is more likely to need to be eligible for men and women to compete, making the ability to play even more fragile.
The couple was expected a lot after Alcaraz revealed the offer from the US Open: “I have known Emma for a long time and have a good relationship with her. I am very excited, will try to promote the skills of double fighting and try to win together.”
Raducanu recounted: “When he asked, I was going to say 'agree' immediately. But still have to ask the coach to properly. Must make people nervous a bit!”
Will this promising young couple really appear at Flushing Meadows or will the next big name say goodbye? The answer will be in the next few weeks.