LONDON — British tennis sensation Emma Raducanu, who stunned the world with her 2021 US Open victory, has surprisingly earned less than £1 million in prize money during the 2025 season ahead of her return to Flushing Meadows. Despite her star power and endorsement deals, her on-court earnings have lagged behind expectations.
The 22-year-old, who became the first qualifier in history to win a Grand Slam, has faced a turbulent few years since her breakthrough. Injuries, coaching changes, and inconsistent form have hampered her progress, resulting in a modest prize money haul this season. According to WTA records, Raducanu has earned approximately £850,000 ($1.1 million) in 2025—a figure that pales in comparison to her peers.
A Struggling Comeback
Raducanu’s 2025 season has been a mixed bag. While she has shown flashes of brilliance, her results have been inconsistent. Early exits in tournaments like the Australian Open and Wimbledon have significantly impacted her earnings. Tennis analyst Mark Petchey noted, "Emma’s talent is undeniable, but her inability to string together deep runs has hurt her financially."
Her struggles are particularly surprising given her marketability. Raducanu remains one of the most recognizable faces in women’s tennis, with lucrative deals with brands like Nike, Porsche, and Tiffany & Co. However, her on-court performance has not matched her off-court success.
Key Factors Behind the Slump
Several factors have contributed to Raducanu’s underwhelming prize money earnings in 2025:
- Injury Woes: Persistent wrist and ankle issues have limited her tournament participation.
- Early Exits: First- and second-round losses have become more frequent.
- Ranking Drop: Falling outside the top 50 has forced her to play smaller events with lower prize pools.
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman weighed in, saying, "Emma’s challenge is staying healthy and building momentum. Right now, she’s stuck in a cycle of stop-start performances."
Comparisons to Peers
Raducanu’s earnings pale in comparison to other top players. For context:
- Iga Świątek: Over £3.5 million in prize money this season.
- Coco Gauff: Close to £2.8 million.
- Aryna Sabalenka: £2.6 million.
The disparity highlights how far Raducanu has fallen since her US Open triumph. Sports economist Simon Chadwick remarked, "Emma’s brand value remains high, but her prize money reflects her current standing in the sport. She needs a resurgence to justify her marketability."
The Road to the US Open
As Raducanu prepares for the 2025 US Open, the pressure is mounting. A strong performance in New York could reignite her career and boost her earnings significantly. However, her recent form suggests it won’t be easy. She has yet to advance past the third round in any Grand Slam since her 2021 victory.
Her coach, Nick Cavaday, remains optimistic: "Emma’s working harder than ever. The results haven’t come yet, but she’s close to turning a corner. The US Open could be the perfect stage for her comeback."
Conclusion
Emma Raducanu’s 2025 season has been a financial disappointment by elite tennis standards. While her endorsement deals cushion the blow, her on-court earnings tell a story of unfulfilled potential. The upcoming US Open presents a golden opportunity to reverse the trend—but only if she can recapture the magic of 2021.
As the tennis world watches, one question looms large: Can Raducanu rise to the occasion once again, or will her struggles continue? The answer may define the next chapter of her career.