LONDON — Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has revealed why she hasn’t offered advice to fellow British stars competing at Wimbledon this year, despite her own breakthrough success at a Grand Slam. The 21-year-old, who made history as the first qualifier to win a major title, is focused on her own campaign as she prepares for a challenging opening match.
Raducanu’s Wimbledon Expectations
Raducanu, who missed last year’s Wimbledon due to wrist and ankle surgeries, is back on the grass courts of the All England Club with renewed determination. She acknowledged the difficulty of her first-round clash against 22nd seed Ekaterina Alexandrova, a seasoned grass-court player. “It’s a tough draw, but I’m ready to compete,” Raducanu said in her pre-tournament press conference.
The British star, currently ranked No. 168 after her injury layoff, has shown flashes of her best form in recent months. She reached the semifinals of the Nottingham Open earlier this month, her best result since her return. However, she remains cautious about expectations: “I’m just taking it one match at a time. Grass suits my game, but I’m still rebuilding.”
Why Raducanu Hasn’t Given Advice
When asked if she had shared insights with younger British players like Katie Boulter or Jack Draper, Raducanu explained her reluctance. “I don’t think it’s my place to give advice. Everyone’s journey is different, and they have great teams around them.” She emphasized that each player must find their own path, much like she did during her unprecedented US Open run.
Raducanu’s approach contrasts with some veterans who actively mentor younger players. However, she noted: “I’m still learning myself. Maybe in a few years, I’ll have more wisdom to share, but right now, I’m focused on my own game.”
Key Takeaways from Raducanu’s Comments:
- Respect for individuality: She believes every player’s career path is unique.
- Focus on her own comeback: Raducanu is prioritizing her return to top form.
- Open to future mentorship: She may take on a guiding role later in her career.
The Pressure of Wimbledon
Playing at Wimbledon as a British star comes with immense scrutiny, something Raducanu knows well. Her 2021 breakthrough came shortly after a fourth-round run at SW19, where she retired due to breathing difficulties. “Wimbledon will always be special, but it’s also where I’ve faced some of my biggest challenges,” she reflected.
This year, with fewer expectations due to her ranking, Raducanu feels less burdened: “There’s freedom in being the underdog. I can just go out and play my game.” Still, the British crowd’s support remains a double-edged sword—motivating yet pressure-inducing.
Looking Ahead
Raducanu’s immediate goal is to navigate her tricky first-round match, but long-term, she aims to return to the top 100 by year’s end. “I’ve missed competing at this level. Every match is a step forward,” she said, expressing gratitude for being healthy enough to play.
Her coach, Nick Cavaday, has been instrumental in her resurgence, focusing on consistency and tactical adaptability. Raducanu praised their partnership: “Nick understands my game and keeps things simple. We’re building something sustainable.”
Conclusion
Emma Raducanu’s Wimbledon journey this year is as much about rediscovery as it is about results. While she hasn’t taken on a mentorship role for her compatriots, her focus on personal growth could pave the way for future success—both for herself and as a potential guide for the next generation. As she steps onto Court No. 1 for her opener, British fans will be hoping to see glimpses of the fearless player who captivated the tennis world three years ago.
For now, Raducanu’s message is clear: “I’m here to compete, learn, and enjoy the process. The rest will follow.”