LONDON — British tennis sensation Emma Raducanu has revealed her exciting new partnership with Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina as she sets her sights on clinching two major trophies in the coming months. The 2021 US Open winner opened up about their budding friendship and on-court chemistry, hinting at a formidable doubles pairing in the future.
Raducanu, who has been navigating a career resurgence after injury setbacks, shared insights into her collaboration with Rybakina during a press conference ahead of the Stuttgart Open. "Elena and I have been training together more frequently, and it's been incredible to learn from someone of her caliber," Raducanu said. "We push each other, and there's a great energy between us."
A Dynamic Duo in the Making
The partnership between Raducanu and Rybakina has sparked speculation about potential doubles appearances, particularly at the Paris Olympics. Both players have expressed interest in representing their countries—Raducanu for Great Britain and Rybakina for Kazakhstan—in the team event. "We've joked about playing doubles together, and who knows? It could happen sooner than people think," Raducanu teased.
Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, echoed Raducanu's enthusiasm: "Emma is a fierce competitor, and we complement each other well. It's refreshing to train with someone who has such a strong work ethic." The duo has been spotted practicing together at the National Tennis Centre in London, with coaches noting their seamless coordination.
Raducanu's Dual Trophy Ambitions
Raducanu, currently ranked No. 105 after a series of strong performances in 2024, is targeting two key tournaments: the Nottingham Open and the Eastbourne International. "My goal is to win a title on grass before Wimbledon," she declared. "Elena's experience on this surface has been invaluable in helping me refine my game."
Her recent form suggests she’s on the right track:
- Reached the quarterfinals at the Miami Open
- Secured a top-50 win over Caroline Garcia in Stuttgart
- Improved her serve accuracy by 12% since partnering with Rybakina
Grass-Court Preparations
With Wimbledon just weeks away, Raducanu is leaving no stone unturned. "Grass is where I feel most at home, and I’m working closely with Elena to adapt my movement and net play," she explained. Rybakina, known for her powerful baseline game, has been helping Raducanu incorporate more aggression into her rallies.
The Road Ahead
Raducanu’s partnership with Rybakina extends beyond the court. The two have been seen attending events together, including a recent charity gala in London. "We’re both quiet off the court, but when we step on it, there’s this unspoken understanding," Raducanu shared.
As for the Olympics, Raducanu remains hopeful: "Representing Team GB in Paris would be a dream. If Elena and I get the chance to play doubles, it’d be an honor to compete alongside her." The International Tennis Federation will finalize Olympic entries in June, and fans are already rallying for the duo to receive a wildcard.
Rybakina added: "Emma has the talent to win multiple Slams. If we join forces, we could be a dangerous pair." With Raducanu’s precision and Rybakina’s power, the tennis world may soon witness a partnership that redefines women’s doubles.
Raducanu’s coach, Nick Cavaday, praised the collaboration: "Elena brings out the best in Emma. Their sessions are intense but productive. This could be the start of something special." As the grass-court season heats up, all eyes will be on this dynamic duo.
For now, Raducanu remains focused on her singles campaign. "I’m taking it one match at a time, but having Elena by my side gives me extra confidence," she said. Whether they team up officially or continue as training partners, their bond is undeniably strengthening—both on and off the court.
With Nottingham and Eastbourne on the horizon, Raducanu’s quest for two trophies is well underway. And if her partnership with Rybakina evolves into a doubles venture, tennis fans could be in for a thrilling summer. "Watch this space," Raducanu concluded with a smile.