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Tennis fans and tabloids have been abuzz lately with whispers about a possible romance between British star Emma Raducanu and Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz. With the two teaming up for mixed doubles at the upcoming US Open and Raducanu frequently seen supporting Alcaraz from the stands, speculation has soared. Now, Rafael Nadal, one of the sport’s most respected voices and Alcaraz’s idol, has offered a brief but telling response to the swirling rumors.
Rafael Nadal shies away from relationship talk
In a recent interview with The Times, Nadal was asked to weigh in on the growing chatter regarding Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz’s close bond. However, the 22-time Grand Slam champion made it clear that he prefers to stay away from the gossip mill.
“Sorry, but I don't get involved in those topics,” Nadal said candidly, making it evident that while he’s aware of the rumors, he’s not entertaining them.
Despite the non-committal stance on their rumored relationship, Rafael Nadal was more forthcoming when discussing Emma Raducanu’s tennis journey. He offered praise for her breakthrough and empathy for her struggles following her meteoric rise.
Nadal Reflects on Emma Raducanu's journey and comeback
The Spanish legend reflected on Raducanu’s stunning 2021 US Open victory, a feat she achieved as a little-known wildcard ranked 150th in the world. Winning ten consecutive matches in straight sets to clinch the title, Raducanu's performance remains one of the most impressive Grand Slam breakthroughs in recent memory.
Yet, Rafael Nadal also acknowledged the immense pressure that followed.
“I think she won very early on. When she won the US Open she was very young. There were a lot of expectations and pressure on her. It takes time to come to terms with,” he remarked.
Following a tough 2023 season that included three surgeries and a drop outside the top 300, Emma Raducanu has clawed her way back to No. 45 in the WTA rankings. Her spirited performance at Wimbledon, where she nearly upset world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, has reignited hopes for a full comeback.
Raducanu’s support for Carlos Alcaraz raises eyebrows
Adding fuel to the romance speculation, Raducanu has been seen courtside multiple times during Carlos Alcaraz’s matches — including his Centre Court win over Andrey Rublev and his Queen’s Club semi-final against Roberto Bautista Agut.
Still, the 22-year-old dismissed any talk of a budding relationship.
“I was having the day off on Saturday and I was with my friends and we were like, ‘Let's go to Queen's and watch the tennis.’ And then we went out and to the River Cafe in the evening, it was a super nice evening,” Emma Raducanu explained.
Regardless of the rumors, fans are eagerly awaiting to see how the chemistry between the two young stars plays out on court when they partner in mixed doubles at the US Open.
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