Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz Receive US Open Mixed Doubles Wildcard for August 2025

Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz have officially been awarded a wild card to compete in the US Open mixed doubles championship, which will take place during Fan Week from 19-20 August 2025 in New York. The newly revamped event, played over two days in a fast‑paced format, is designed to increase audience engagement.

Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, and Alcaraz, who lifted the men's singles trophy in 2022, are expected to generate significant media attention. Their high‑profile partnership could raise the profile of mixed doubles tennis at Grand Slam level.

New £780,000 prize makes US Open mixed doubles a headline event

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has transformed the mixed doubles format for 2025. Rather than coinciding with the singles draws, the event will be played over two days during Fan Week.

Key changes include:

• Short sets to four games.
• No‑advantage scoring.
• 10‑point match tiebreakers replacing full third sets.
• A record £780,000 ($1 million) prize for the winners.

According to the USTA, these adjustments are intended to 'elevate the status of doubles and attract the world's top players'.

Why Raducanu and Alcaraz's partnership has captured global attention

Great Britain's Raducanu and Spain's Alcaraz are among the most high‑profile entrants in the mixed doubles field.

Alcaraz, currently ranked world No 2, explained how the partnership came about: 'I just asked Emma if she wanted to play. She's the boss now'.

Raducanu has returned to strong form in recent months, reaching the semi‑finals in Washington and climbing back into the WTA top 40. Their combined rankings and popularity make them one of the most anticipated teams in the competition.

Star-studded wild cards promise thrilling match‑ups

Raducanu and Alcaraz will join a host of other elite wild‑card entrants, including:

• Novak Djokovic & Olga Danilović
• Venus Williams & Reilly Opelka
• Madison Keys & Frances Tiafoe
• Taylor Townsend & Ben Shelton
• Defending champions Sara Errani & Andrea Vavassori

According to tennis.com, these pairings offer a blend of experienced champions and rising stars, guaranteeing strong fan interest.

Mixed doubles revamp sparks debate over fairness and spectacle

While many fans have welcomed the fresh format, several former doubles specialists have criticised the shorter structure for reducing match length and strategic depth.

The USTA points to a consistent rise in Fan Week attendance since 2022. Organisers believe the changes will further increase ticket sales and television viewership.

With the singles draw beginning on 24 August 2025, the mixed doubles event offers Raducanu and Alcaraz a valuable opportunity to sharpen their match play ahead of their solo campaigns.

'Playing with Carlos will be a lot of fun', Raducanu said. 'It's a great way to connect with the New York crowd before singles'.

The £780,000 ($1 million) prize provides an additional incentive, but both players have spoken about wanting to inspire renewed interest in mixed doubles through their participation.

Can 'Alcaranu' inspire a new era for mixed doubles?

The duo's presence has already delivered unprecedented attention to the mixed doubles competition. Whether they go on to lift the trophy or not, the excitement surrounding their entry suggests the event could become a permanent highlight of Fan Week.