(VIDEO) Jack Draper told off by Jessica Pegula as Emma Raducanu snubs hug from the Brit after US Open match

Day two of the US Open’s revamped mixed doubles event brought its fair share of drama both on and off the court, with Jack Draper finding himself at the centre of two eyebrow-raising moments. Partnering with world number 4 Jessica Pegula, the British star helped secure a commanding 4-2, 4-2 victory over compatriot Emma Raducanu and Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz, but the post-match fallout quickly stole the headlines.

The first talking point came just moments earlier on court in an awkward post-match handshake situation. After beating Raducanu and Alcaraz in 50 minutes, Draper approached Raducanu, seemingly expecting a friendly hug. Raducanu, though, had other ideas, as instead she extended her hand for a straightforward handshake. In a split second of visible hesitation, Draper adjusted, offering his hand back. Raducanu then turned warmly to Pegula, greeting her with a more enthusiastic embrace, leaving Draper momentarily in no man’s land till he gave a hug to the Spaniard.

For fans watching on Arthur Ashe Stadium and at home, the incident quickly became social media fodder, with some playfully suggesting Draper had been “friend-zoned” in front of thousands. Whether deliberate or not, the gesture reflected Raducanu’s preference for formality in that moment, though it didn’t take away from her smiles during the on-court interaction.

The second talking point unfolded during the press conference, where Draper risked ruffling feathers by calling the newly formatted competition an "exhibition.". This comment did not sit well with his doubles partner as Pegula quickly corrected him, saying, "He shouldn’t be saying that, but that’s OK," firmly clarifying that this tournament "wasn’t an exhibition.". The correction highlighted how seriously the top-seeded duo are taking the event. Draper, slightly sheepish, smiled it off, though the exchange accentuated Pegula’s role as both mentor and leader alongside the rising British talent.

Meanwhile, away from the court, Raducanu was also making headlines for another reason as she was once again at the centre of dating rumours. The 2021 US Open champion has been repeatedly linked with Carlos Alcaraz, with speculation swirling about a supposed romance between the two rising stars. However, tennis legend Chris Evert dismissed the chatter outright when asked if there were any similarities between Raducanu and Alcaraz’s relationship rumours and her own 1970s love story with Jimmy Connors.

The former 18-time Grand Slam champion was asked about the parallels between Emma and Carlos with her and Jimmy Connors on ESPN, where she said, "No, because they [Raducanu and Alcaraz] are not having a relationship.". She then elicited her relief to not being a modern-day tennis star, stating: "I'm so glad I came up in the '70s, not in this day and age. Because, I mean, jeez, you're controversial and talked about no matter what you do.".

The remarks will be welcome clarity for Raducanu, who has consistently had to bat away questions about her private life despite insisting she wants the focus to remain on her tennis. Alcaraz, for his part, has also brushed off such speculation, instead drawing plaudits for his energy in returning to New York just 24 hours after lifting his 22nd title in Cincinnati.

As the semifinals loom, all eyes will be on how far Draper and Pegula can carry this momentum. Pegula’s experience in doubles, including several deep Slam runs, has clearly helped settle Draper into the format, while Draper’s power and composure are proving invaluable assets. Later this Wednesday the pairing are first up on Arthur Ashe to play the number 3 seeds Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud. If they win their semifinal match the Brit and American will play either defending mixed doubles champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori or Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison.