Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper entered the 2025 US Open mixed doubles draw as the No. 1 seeds, and their opening match against Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz showcased why. Inside a lively Arthur Ashe Stadium, Pegula and Draper wasted no time asserting control. Draper broke Alcaraz’s serve in the very first game, setting the tone for a fast-paced first set. With consistent baseline play and sharp net coverage, the American-British duo surged ahead 2-0 and maintained their lead, closing the set 4-2.
Raducanu and Alcaraz Fight Back
Despite the early setback, Raducanu and Alcaraz found their rhythm in the second set. They held their opening service games and began to challenge Pegula and Draper with aggressive returns and clever shot placement. At 2-1 down, they saved multiple match points during a tense service game, holding for 3-2 and keeping the crowd on edge. Their resilience forced a deciding point at 4-2, but Draper’s forehand down the line sealed the match.
Strategic Precision and Team Chemistry
Pegula and Draper’s success stemmed from their seamless coordination and tactical execution. Draper’s powerful groundstrokes complemented Pegula’s finesse at the net, creating a balanced attack that kept their opponents guessing. Their ability to anticipate each other’s movements and adjust mid-rally gave them a clear edge, especially during crucial break points.
What Lies Ahead
With this straight-sets victory, Pegula and Draper advanced to the quarterfinals, where they are set to face either Olga Danilovic and Novak Djokovic or Mirra Andreeva and Daniil Medvedev. Their performance in Round 1 sends a strong signal to the rest of the draw: they are here to win, and they’re playing with purpose.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Currently ranked no.2, the Spaniard played his last match on the 18th
of August when he defeated world no.1 Jannik Sinner 5-0 in the final in Cincinnati to win his 23rd career title.Currently, during this year Carlos has achieved a composed 54-6 record. The Spaniard clinched 6 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London and Cincinnati. The Spaniard was the finalist in Barcelona and Wimbledon.
Jack Draper in 2025
Now the world no.5, Jack played his last match on the 3rd of July when he lost to world no.61 Marin Cilic 6-4 6-3 1-6 6-4 in the 2nd round in Wimbledon (draw).
This season the Brit has an overall 29-9 match record. This year, the Brit won 1 tournament in Indian Wells. Draper got to the final in Doha and Madrid.
Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper played each other 6 times. Their record is 4-2 for Alcaraz.