Raducanu declines to embrace Zheng Qinwen's ideal partner, sparking heated debate among international netizens.

“It’s truly amazing to see what he’s accomplished and the things he’s done.” Earlier this season, British player and former US Open champion Raducanu sincerely praised compatriot and ATP rising star Draper, who had just broken into the world’s top five. “I know he’s an outstanding tennis player with a powerful presence, able to completely dictate matches and leave his opponents struggling. It’s really cool to see him showing such dominance lately.”

However, on Tuesday, Raducanu got to witness Draper’s strength firsthand in the US Open mixed doubles, where she teamed up with five-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz. The match result wasn’t the main topic of conversation; what truly set social media abuzz was the seemingly “cold” interaction between Raducanu and Draper after the match. Why was that?

Ever since Alcaraz and Raducanu announced their participation in the US Open mixed doubles, fans’ anticipation has been sky-high. They finally faced Draper and American star Pegula. Although many supported “Emmalitos” (the nickname for the Raducanu + Alcaraz duo), the outcome was surprising.

Draper and Pegula needed just 50 minutes to win in straight sets (4-2, 4-2), defeating Raducanu and Alcaraz and advancing to the quarterfinals. Yet, the real buzz came from the post-match net interaction. After the match, Alcaraz hugged both opponents, while Raducanu hugged Pegula but only shook hands with Draper. It was clear Draper went in for a hug, but Raducanu turned to Pegula right after the handshake.

Fans on social media felt Draper was “too tough” on Raducanu during the match. That’s why, according to online chatter, the 2021 US Open champion chose not to give her compatriot a hug afterward. Meanwhile, other netizens reacted strongly as well.

Some fans bluntly called Raducanu’s reaction “cold as ice,” while others agreed, saying, “She didn’t look happy, and I don’t blame her.” The reason might be that Draper was so focused during the match. He hit aggressively several times, showing no mercy even against Raducanu, all for winning points and ultimately the match.

In fact, Raducanu and Draper have always had a good relationship, often interacting publicly and showing a friendly atmosphere as compatriots. For example, Draper praised Raducanu in a January interview with The Times: “She’s always supported me, and I’ve always supported her. She’s really cheerful, kind, thoughtful, always giggling, very smart—she’s genuinely a wonderful person.”

Interestingly, Draper once joked when asked about partnering with Raducanu. After Raducanu chose to team up with Alcaraz, the 2025 Indian Wells Masters champion quipped, “Someone once told me you should find the best partner, and she certainly did with Alcaraz—I don’t blame her at all.” He added, “She’ll definitely have a great time playing with Carlos.”

It’s worth noting that if Zheng Qinwen hadn’t undergone surgery, she would have partnered with Draper in this year’s US Open mixed doubles. Earlier this year, Zheng said in an interview, “Why not? We’re of the same generation. Actually, Indian Wells this year was the first time we greeted each other, and then he went on to win the tournament, which was fantastic.” Draper also expressed excitement about teaming up with Zheng: “It was actually through IMG that I contacted her, since she’s also with IMG.”

Although fans missed out on seeing Zheng Qinwen and Draper play mixed doubles together, it seemed Draper was the one truly enjoying himself during Tuesday’s match. He was on fire, making it tough for Alcaraz and Raducanu throughout. “He targeted her the whole match, and both of them knew it. That’s too much, Jack!” one fan commented. Another said, “Draper didn’t act gentlemanly—he didn’t deserve a hug from Emma.”

While fans on social media continue to passionately discuss this moment, what’s your take on Raducanu and Draper’s post-match interaction? Feel free to share your thoughts below.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)