Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu suffered an early exit in the US Open 2025 mixed doubles first round. The wildcard pairing lost in straight sets to top seeds Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula at Flushing Meadows. Many fans had billed Alcaraz and Raducanu as the most exciting duo in this year’s re-imagined format, but their run ended before it truly began.
Draper and Pegula Prove Too Strong
Based on singles rankings, Draper and Pegula entered the tournament as the top-seeded pair. Their chemistry on court proved decisive as they secured an early break to control the opening set.
“I’ve got a pretty good partner,” Draper said on-court. “What an experience playing out here against Emma and Carlos. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just a pleasure to be out here playing with such a good player.”
Pegula, known for her doubles pedigree, highlighted how enjoyable the match was despite the high stakes. “That was such a fun atmosphere,” she said. “I played doubles a lot, haven’t played that much recently, so it’s always kind of tricky, especially going into a mixed format. It was a lot of fun. Jack played great.”
Her vast doubles experience, including seven career titles with Coco Gauff, is now driving their strong campaign.
Raducanu and Alcaraz Show Promise Despite Loss
Despite defeat, Alcaraz and Raducanu showed glimpses of promise as they settled into their new partnership. Raducanu impressed with sharp net play, while Alcaraz thrilled the Arthur Ashe crowd with a stunning forehand around the net post.
However, critical errors at key moments stopped them from breaking serve. Draper and Pegula seized the momentum and capitalized to seal a 4-2, 4-2 victory under the fast-paced format.
Though they fought hard, including saving three match points, Alcaraz and Raducanu could not overturn the deficit. Their focus now shifts to their singles campaigns beginning Sunday, with Raducanu returning to the site of her 2021 US Open triumph.
Draper and Pegula advanced confidently, later dismantling Daniil Medvedev and Mirra Andreeva 4-1, 4-1, to book a semi-final clash with Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud.
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