Raducanu Makes Return to US Open with Confidence as Defending Champion

Emma Raducanu, the 21-year-old tennis player from England, has returned to the U.S. Open, where she unexpectedly won three years ago. Despite questions about her match readiness, Raducanu remains confident in her limited match preparation for the final Grand Slam of the season. Having played fewer than 30 matches this year and opting out of several tournaments, Raducanu believes in targeting specific competitions rather than playing extensively.

After a fourth-round exit at Wimbledon and choosing not to participate in the Olympics, Raducanu only made one appearance during the North American hard-court swing, where she lost in the third round in Washington. She declined to play in Canada, her birth country, and instead returned to Britain to practice before heading to New York to face Sofia Kenin in the first round.

Raducanu acknowledges that she is not the type of player who competes in numerous events annually, with her style leaning towards quality over quantity when it comes to tournaments. Following surgery on both wrists and an ankle in 2023, Raducanu’s sole appearance at the U.S. Open in 2022 resulted in a first-round defeat to Alize Cornet.

Despite criticism of her career decisions, Raducanu remains focused on her goals and past achievements, such as winning the U.S. Open in 2021. During a recent practice session at the tournament, Raducanu fulfilled a promise to hit with a young fan who had captured her attention, showcasing her dedication to connecting with her supporters and finding joy in the game.

Raducanu’s name on the U.S. Open trophy serves as a reminder of her past triumph and motivates her to aspire for more success in her career. Her unique perspective and enthusiasm for the sport reflect a newfound inspiration as she navigates through the challenges and expectations of professional tennis.