Emma Raducanu has got herself one hell of a partner in Carlos Alcaraz(Image: 2025 Getty Images)
The current British No.1 and world No.6 saw Emma Raducanu pick world No.2 Carlos Alcaraz to be her mixed doubles partner at a US Open event this summer – and Draper doesn’t blame her one bit.
Jack Draper had the perfect response to Emma Raducanu’s decision to pair with Carlos Alcaraz for the mixed doubles at a US Open even this summer, insisting simply: “I don’t blame her at all”.
Raducanu and world No.2 Alcaraz are among 16 big-name pairs announced by Flushing Meadows organisers on Tuesday. Asked if the two current British number ones could have got together instead, Draper said: “A wise person once told me you should find the best partner – and that’s what she did. I don’t blame her at all for that.
“He’s obviously the best player in the world probably right now, along with (Jannik) Sinner. Great at doubles, as well. She’s gone about and chose the best partner, for sure. Hopefully they do well.”
Draper, currently world No.6, has linked up with Olympic champion Qinwen Zheng of China.
“I think it’s a good format for the players to get prepared for the US Open, having a shot at playing with another top player,” he added. “Qinwen I know from the Tour. I have seen her around. Obviously a great player herself and has a really good game.
“It will be fun to get out there and play with her and see how we get on. It was me who messaged. It was nice to get that together and let’s see how we get on.”
Alcaraz, who joined Draper in the second round at Queen’s Club on Tuesday, said: “She’s gonna be the boss!
“I’m super excited about it. I think it’s going to be great. It was an amazing idea for the tournament. I’ve known Emma since a really long time ago, so we know each other. I have a really good relationship with her. We are going to enjoy it, for sure.
“I will try to bring my doubles skill. We will try to win. But obviously it’s going to be really, really fun.”
