LONDON — Emma Raducanu’s recent doubles partnership with Elena Rybakina at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has sparked intrigue among tennis fans, with Rybakina making her feelings about the Brit perfectly clear. The Kazakh star, a former Wimbledon champion, didn’t hold back in praising Raducanu’s game and potential, signaling a strong mutual respect between the two.
A Surprising but Promising Partnership
Raducanu and Rybakina teamed up for the first time in Abu Dhabi, marking an unexpected but exciting collaboration. The duo, both Grand Slam champions in their own right, showcased flashes of brilliance despite losing in straight sets to the experienced pair of Sofia Kenin and Bethanie Mattek-Sands. "It was fun playing with Emma," Rybakina said after the match. "She’s a great player with a lot of talent, and I think we could do well together in the future."
The partnership was particularly notable given Raducanu’s limited doubles experience. The 2021 US Open champion has primarily focused on singles, but her willingness to experiment with Rybakina suggests a growing openness to new challenges. "Doubles is a different game, but I enjoyed it," Raducanu admitted. "Elena made it easy for me—she’s so strong and consistent."
Rybakina’s Clear Admiration for Raducanu
Rybakina’s comments about Raducanu went beyond mere politeness. The world No. 5 highlighted specific aspects of the Brit’s game that impressed her, including her adaptability and shot-making. "Emma has a great feel for the ball, and her movement is really good," Rybakina noted. "She’s still young, but she’s already achieved so much. I think she has a bright future."
The praise didn’t stop there. Rybakina, known for her reserved demeanor, was unusually effusive when discussing Raducanu’s potential. "She’s got everything—power, touch, and a great mentality. I’m sure she’ll be back at the top soon," she added, referencing Raducanu’s recent struggles with injuries and form.
Key Takeaways from Their Partnership
- Chemistry: Despite limited practice time, the pair showed glimpses of strong on-court synergy.
- Complementary Styles: Rybakina’s power paired well with Raducanu’s precision and agility.
- Future Potential: Both players expressed interest in teaming up again, hinting at more collaborations.
Raducanu’s Road to Redemption
For Raducanu, the doubles experiment was part of a broader effort to rebuild confidence after a turbulent 2023. The Brit, who has slipped to No. 296 in the rankings following multiple surgeries, is slowly working her way back. "It’s been a tough journey, but I’m feeling good now," she said. "Playing with someone like Elena reminds me of the level I want to get back to."
Her partnership with Rybakina also underscored her growing reputation among peers. Despite her ranking drop, Raducanu remains a respected figure in the locker room, with top players like Rybakina acknowledging her talent. "Emma’s a champion—she knows how to win," Rybakina emphasized. "That doesn’t just go away."
What’s Next for the Duo?
While their Abu Dhabi outing was short-lived, the possibility of future collaborations remains open. Rybakina hinted at teaming up again, perhaps at a Grand Slam. "If the opportunity comes, why not?" she said with a smile. For Raducanu, the focus remains on singles, but the experience was a valuable step in her comeback.
As the tennis world watches Raducanu’s progress, Rybakina’s endorsement serves as a reminder of the Brit’s enduring potential. "She’s got the game to compete with anyone," Rybakina concluded. "I’m excited to see what she does next."
For now, Raducanu will continue her singles campaign, with Rybakina’s words echoing as a vote of confidence. The mutual respect between the two champions suggests this won’t be the last time they share the court—whether as partners or rivals.