US Open mixed doubles bombshell? Serena Williams’ message to Carlos Alcaraz sparks fresh speculation
Tennis NewsTuesday, 14 July 2026 at 06:30
Serena Williams has added fresh intrigue to the possibility of teaming up with Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open mixed doubles event after sending an unusual message to the Spaniard on social media.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion reacted to Alcaraz’s latest training update, where the world No. 2 shared photos from his return to the court ahead of his comeback from injury. Williams left a short but eye-catching comment under the post, writing: “They not ready.”
The message came just weeks after renewed speculation emerged about a potential blockbuster mixed doubles partnership between Williams and Alcaraz at Flushing Meadows. While there has been no official confirmation, the interaction between the two Grand Slam champions has added more attention to the possibility.
Alcaraz had previously posted images from his training sessions with the caption “Por el buen camino” (“On the right path”), showing that his recovery is progressing ahead of his planned return during the North American hard-court swing. Williams’ reaction immediately caught fans’ attention, especially with rumors surrounding the star-studded US Open mixed doubles field.
Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz could form one of US Open’s biggest attractions
According to previous reports, the US Open mixed doubles draw could once again feature some of the biggest names in singles tennis, with Williams potentially partnering Alcaraz and her sister Venus Williams reportedly linked with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
The rumors gained traction after last year’s revamped mixed doubles format, which moved the event to the week before the main draw and introduced a significant prize purse designed to attract top singles players rather than only traditional doubles specialists.
Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu at US Open
The 2025 edition saw several major singles stars participate. Alcaraz teamed up with Emma Raducanu, while Venus Williams partnered with Reilly Opelka. Sinner was initially expected to play alongside Emma Navarro, before the American withdrew due to injury. The Italian was later announced with Katerina Siniakova, but that partnership also fell through, with local favorites Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison replacing them at the last minute.
The only fully established doubles specialists in the field were Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, who eventually won the title after defeating Casper Ruud and Iga Swiatek in the final.
Alcaraz prepares comeback after missing Wimbledon
Alcaraz’s potential US Open appearance comes after a difficult period on the sidelines. The Spaniard has not competed since suffering a right wrist injury during his Barcelona Open title defense in April, forcing him to miss Roland Garros and Wimbledon.
The 23-year-old recently increased his training intensity, sharing images from the Carlos Alcaraz Academy as he works toward returning to competition. He is expected to make his comeback during the hard-court swing, although his first tournament remains uncertain.
The former world No. 1 will not participate in the Canadian Open, leaving Cincinnati — which begins its main draw on August 13 — as a possible return option before the US Open starts at the end of August.
A potential partnership with Serena Williams would add another major storyline to his return. Williams, who recently returned to competitive action after a long absence, has continued exploring opportunities on court, including doubles appearances during the grass season and a singles appareance in Wimbledon – where she lsot in first orund against 20-year-old Maya Joint.
With the US Open mixed doubles format designed specifically to showcase superstar pairings, a Williams-Alcaraz team would represent one of the most marketable combinations in tennis — and Serena’s latest message has only increased speculation that the partnership could become reality.
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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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mandoist10-07-2026 - "Like if it was hotter, I probably would have won, I'm not gonna lie." Geezus...mandoist08-07-2026
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