Carlos Alcaraz and Serena Williams lit up the sporting world earlier this week, in arguably one of the greatest tennis collaborations of all time.
It saw one of the very best players of all time team up with a modern-day great, in a partnership that boasted a combined 30 singles Grand Slam titles between them.
Whilst they did score an opening-round victory, their run was halted by Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli.
The result was immaterial though.
Just to see these two global superstars take to the court together was enough, and Carlos Alcaraz could not have been more delighted with this opportunity.
Carlos Alcaraz compares playing with Serena Williams to a Grand Slam final
Speaking afterwards, the Spaniard was glowing when asked to review this experience.
In a chat with NBC News, Alcaraz was asked how it felt to return after nearly four months out of the game, particularly playing beside someone as legendary as Serena Williams.
Are you a fan of the US Open mixed doubles event? š
He admitted: āI was really nervous at the beginning, so I felt the pressure; I felt everything. It was kind of like playing the final of a Grand Slam.
āFor me, it was an amazing experience; I loved it and enjoyed every single second. For me it was a privilege.ā
Despite the excitement surrounding this union, some have expressed concerns about Alcaraz since watching him play for the first time since April.
Carlos Alcarazās full doubles record after playing with Serena Williams at the US Open
Throughout his short but supremely successful career, Alcaraz has not played a great deal of doubles.
However, someone as talented as he is can adapt to any environment, even if he did look a little rusty after four months out of action.
How far do you think Carlos Alcaraz will go at the US Open after four months out injured? š¤
Before this appearance at the US Open, he boasted a 9-6 win-loss record since making his ATP Tour debut in 2018, which predominantly included Laver Cup clashes.
He has also featured in this format in the Davis Cup, the Hopman Cup and the Olympics, famously alongside Rafael Nadal in 2024.
