Barbora Krejcikova is back in the spotlight! After struggling for consistency for a few months following her 2024 Wimbledon triumph, she has shone bright at the WTA Finals. In a thrilling group match, she defeated World No. 3 Coco Gauff with a score of 7-5, 6-4. This victory not only marked her return to form but also secured her a spot in the semifinals, where she’ll face World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. In the meantime, Krejcikova is engaging with fans on X!

Earlier today, Krejcikova reached out to her X followers for a fun Q&A session. While receiving congratulatory messages and responding to the questions about her performances this season, Barbora stumbled upon a rather interesting question about her dream mixed-doubles partner! The fan asked, “Which active ATP player would you like to play mixed doubles with?”

The Czech boasts an impressive record in mixed doubles, having secured three Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open consecutively from 2019 to 2021. In 2019, she partnered with American Rajeev Ram to clinch her first mixed doubles title. The following year, she successfully defended her title alongside Croatian Nikola Mektic, and in 2021, she teamed up with Ram again to complete the three-peat. However, in response to the question on X, Krejcikova chose the ATP No. 3 “Carlos Alcaraz” as someone she wants to play mixed-doubles with!

The choice makes sense given their previous interactions off the court. The two have shared playful moments at various tournaments, showcasing a friendly rapport. For instance, one might recall their heartwarming dance together at the Wimbledon Champions Ball earlier this year in July! So the thought that they might step on the court together seems almost electrifying!

Alcaraz has been a hot topic this season, capturing attention with his impressive performances. He won multiple titles throughout the season and solidified his status as one of the best players in the world. Most recently he defeated Jannik Sinner at the China Open on October 2 and is now headed to the ATP Finals. As the event approaches, the anticipation to see which player emerges victorious is high. And talking about Alcaraz, Barbora Krejcikova isn’t the only who rates the Spaniard highly.

Former tennis star gushes about Alcaraz’s skills on the court

The former American pro Tracy Austin recently appeared on the Tennis Channel podcast to discuss the top eight players heading to the year-end championships in Turin. When asked to name the player with the best offensive skills, she confidently declared, “To me, it’s Alcaraz. I think of him as kind of a swashbuckler and he’s so aggressive.” This admiration didn’t stop there.

When it came to defensive skills, Austin again picked Carlos Alcaraz, highlighting his electrifying style of play. This isn’t the first time she’s praised the Spaniard though. “I love watching him play. He hits a shot and he’s like ‘Woah,’ and the fans are like ‘Woah,’ and he’s like ‘Wow, I hit that.’ He’s so exciting,” Austin had said before the 2024 US Open as well.

Although Austin had predicted Alcaraz would win the US Open, her forecast was upended by Jannik Sinner‘s stunning performance. Nonetheless, her affection for Alcaraz remains unwavering. She praised him as “a speedster,” noting, “I think he’s just about the quickest on the Tour. It’s tough to get a winner by him.” When discussing players with varied playing styles, she again pointed to Alcaraz, saying, “You know I’ve got Alcaraz there, too. I seem to be in love with Carlos.” Austin further highlighted Alcaraz’s ability to serve and volley, hit powerful shots, and execute the best drop shot in the game.

Austin, however, also acknowledged Jannik Sinner’s versatility, particularly his performance at the US Open final against Taylor Fritz, where he effectively utilized low slices to keep his opponent off balance. Despite recognizing Sinner’s talents though, Austin consistently favored Alcaraz throughout her conversation. Now the ATP Finals is on the horizon and a star-studded lineup is set to compete. Who do you think will take home the title this year? Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner or someone else? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!