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Tennis sensation Emma Raducanu has finally addressed the swirling rumors about her relationship with Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz. The 2021 U.S. Open champion clarified that the two are just friends and will be partnering up for the mixed doubles event at the U.S. Open in August.
Raducanu, 22, spoke to the BBC in a video published on Monday, saying that she's "glad the internet is having fun and we're providing some entertainment for everyone." The rumors surrounding their relationship began when the U.S. Open announced the mixed doubles pairs, which includes another high-profile pairing of Madison Keys and Frances Tiafoe.
Raducanu explained how the platonic pairing came about, saying that Alcaraz had asked her to be his partner earlier in the year, and she was "very surprised and honored" by the request. She had to ask her coach for permission, but ultimately said yes.
The two tennis stars have known each other since the summer of 2021, when they both made a splash at Wimbledon. Raducanu recalled, "We both started getting to know each other when I had that little run at Wimbledon and he had the five-set [match] in the first round. Ever since, we've stayed in touch."
Alcaraz, also 22, is coming off a big win at the French Open, where he achieved his fifth Grand Slam victory. Raducanu praised his success, saying, "He's done so well, obviously, and continued winning. It's been amazing to see."
Raducanu, currently ranked No. 38, has had her own struggles with injuries, including wrist and ankle surgery in 2023. However, she's been steadily climbing up the rankings and is looking forward to making her U.S. Open mixed doubles debut with Alcaraz.
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