Emma Raducanu believes there is plenty she can learn from Carlos Alcaraz as he prepares to defend his Wimbledon crown.
The two Grand Slam winners will be competing in SW19 for the season’s next major tournament, but they will be working together later in the year.
The duo is due to compete as a doubles pair in the US Open, where there is $1 million in prize money up for grabs in August.
Raducanu joked, “gotta keep them on their toes” when she explained that she kept Alcaraz waiting for a response on his suggestion to form a team, as she had to go through the decision with her coach.
She added: “He’s so nice, very happy, amazing values and just a really positive light to be around. Good tennis player as well, great tennis player.
“I remember he beat Stef [Tsitsipas] in the third round [at the US Open in 2021] and it was like a big win, his breakout kind of win on a big stage and it was really cool to go through that tournament together.
“I kept going through the US Open, but we were staying in touch for the whole time and it’s nice. We have a good relationship still. He’s obviously overtaken me a lot, but it’s nice that we have that from a while ago.”
Both players are Grand Slam winners. Raducanu won the US Open in 2021, while Alcaraz has five, including the last two Wimbledon tournaments.
A win in 2025 would give him a rare hat-trick in south-west London.
Alcaraz is known for his aggressive and inventive play, and Raducanu said she was inspired by his positive approach on court.
“When I see him play, he’s always got a smile on his face and enjoying it,” Raducanu, who was seen watching Alcaraz from the balcony at Queen’s, said.
“That’s why he’s able to do such crazy shots, turn points around that he’s maybe not favoured to and pull out these ridiculous shots. It’s coming from a place of curiosity.
“It’s amazing to have that on the men’s side and take inspiration when I can.”