NEW YORK — A noticeably different Emma Raducanu arrived at the 2024 US Open, not just in her physical conditioning but in her entire demeanor. The 2021 champion, whose fairytale run from qualifier to Grand Slam winner captivated the sporting world, is back at Flushing Meadows with a renewed sense of purpose and a powerful declaration about her future ambitions.
Gone is the wide-eyed teenager burdened by the whirlwind of instant fame and a crippling series of injuries. In her place stands a composed, physically robust, and fiercely determined 21-year-old, who has made it clear that her stunning triumph three years ago was merely the beginning of her story, not its climax. "I'm not here to defend a title," she stated firmly in a pre-tournament press conference. "I'm here to start again and build my way back."
A Striking Physical Transformation
The most immediate difference for Raducanu is her physical presence. After multiple surgeries on both wrists and one ankle, which severely limited her 2023 season, Raducanu has dedicated the last eight months to a grueling strength and conditioning program. The results are undeniable.
- Increased Muscle Mass: Her physique is noticeably stronger, particularly in her shoulders and legs, providing a more powerful base for her explosive groundstrokes.
- Improved Endurance: Her training has focused on building the stamina required to endure the brutal two-week grind of a major, a challenge that has proven difficult in the past.
- Injury Resilience: The strengthened core and limbs are designed to withstand the immense physical demands of the tour, a crucial step toward consistency.
This transformation wasn't just for show. Raducanu explained, "I needed to get stronger physically to be able to practice more and to be able to last longer. I feel like I've done that. I feel physically really good."
The Big Declaration: A New Mindset
Beyond the physical changes, Raducanu's mental shift has been the most talked-about aspect of her return. The pressure that followed her 2021 victory was immense, leading to coaching changes, criticism, and a loss of confidence. Now, she has publicly declared a new approach: embracing the process over the outcome.
"Before, I was maybe a bit too results-oriented," she admitted. "Now, I'm just focused on the day-to-day. I'm not putting any pressure on myself. I just want to keep building, keep improving my level, and see where that takes me."
This declaration marks a significant maturation. She is consciously shifting the narrative from being a former champion defending her past to being a hungry contender building her future. This mindset allows her to play with more freedom, unshackled from the weight of external expectations that once seemed to paralyze her game.
A Supportive Team and Clear Goals
A key factor in this renewed outlook is the stability of her coaching team. After a much-publicized carousel of coaches, Raducanu has found a steadying influence in Nick Cavaday. The pair have worked diligently on simplifying her game and reinforcing her aggressive baseline style. The focus is on playing her own game, regardless of the opponent across the net.
Her goals for the tournament, and the season ahead, reflect this new perspective. Rather than targeting specific ranking points or round appearances, she is focused on process-oriented objectives:
- Maintaining a high first-serve percentage
- Dictating play with her forehand
- Staying physically and mentally present in every match
"I know my level is there," she declared with a quiet confidence. "It's about trusting it and bringing it to the match court. I feel like I'm doing that better and better. I'm in a really good place to keep going."
The Road Ahead at Flushing Meadows
Drawn in a competitive section of the draw, Raducanu's new mentality will be tested immediately. However, the atmosphere around her feels different. The British press, once a source of intense scrutiny, has noted her positive aura. Fellow players have commented on her improved form and fitness during the North American hardcourt swing leading into the Open.
While no one is predicting a miraculous repeat of 2021, the consensus is that a revitalized Emma Raducanu is one of the most intriguing stories of the tournament. She is no longer a question mark but a statement of intent. Her journey back to the top will be a slow build, but for the first time in years, she appears to have the physical health, mental clarity, and unwavering self-belief to undertake it. The final word goes to Raducanu herself, whose declaration sums up her new chapter: "I'm just getting started."