ROME — Emma Raducanu delivered a thrilling comeback victory against Veronika Kudermetova at the Italian Open, securing a hard-fought 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 win to set up a highly anticipated fourth-round clash with Coco Gauff. The British star showcased her trademark resilience, battling through a tense second set before dominating the decider on the clay courts of Foro Italico.
Raducanu, who entered the tournament as a wildcard, continues to build momentum in her comeback season after multiple injury setbacks. The 2021 US Open champion displayed flashes of her Grand Slam-winning form, particularly in the decisive third set where she broke Kudermetova twice while saving all three break points against her own serve. "I'm just really proud of how I fought today," Raducanu told reporters post-match.
A Match of Momentum Swings
The opening set saw Raducanu establish early control with her aggressive baseline game, converting her third break point in the fifth game to take a 3-2 lead. She maintained the advantage with strong first serves (winning 78% of first-serve points) and closed out the set in 42 minutes. However, Kudermetova responded strongly in the second:
- The Russian broke immediately to start the second set
- Raducanu broke back in the fourth game to level at 2-2
- Kudermetova saved two break points at 5-5 before breaking to force a decider
The final set proved one-way traffic as Raducanu elevated her game. She struck 12 winners to just 4 unforced errors in the set, while Kudermetova's error count ballooned to 15. "I knew I had to stay patient and trust my game," Raducanu said. "The clay rewards consistency and I focused on making her play one more ball."
Gauff Awaits in Fourth Round
The victory sets up a blockbuster meeting with world No. 3 Coco Gauff, who advanced with a straightforward 6-3, 6-3 win over Jaqueline Cristian. The American leads their head-to-head 2-1, though Raducanu won their most recent encounter in Melbourne earlier this year:
- 2022 Australian Open: Gauff won 6-3, 7-6(4)
- 2022 French Open: Gauff won 6-1, 6-1
- 2024 Australian Open: Raducanu won 6-3, 6-2
Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, presents a stern test with her elite movement and heavy topspin forehand. However, Raducanu's improved fitness and confidence on clay could prove decisive factors. "Coco's an amazing player and we've had some great battles," Raducanu noted. "I'll need to serve well and take my chances when they come."
Clay Court Progress
This marks Raducanu's deepest run at a WTA 1000 event since her 2021 US Open triumph. Her performance in Rome demonstrates significant progress on clay - a surface she previously struggled with due to its physical demands. Key improvements include:
- Increased first serve percentage (63% vs Kudermetova)
- Better movement and sliding technique
- More patient point construction (average rally length up 18% from 2023)
Coach Nick Cavaday has emphasized building Raducanu's physical resilience during their training blocks in Barcelona. "Emma's put in the hard yards off court," Cavaday told Tennis Channel. "She's moving better than ever on clay and it's showing in these long matches."
Tournament Implications
With this result, Raducanu is projected to rise to around No. 85 in the live rankings - her highest position since wrist surgery last year. A win over Gauff would likely push her back into the top 70. The match also carries significance for both players' French Open preparations:
- Raducanu could secure direct entry to Roland Garros main draw
- Gauff looks to defend semifinal points from last year's Rome tournament
Weather conditions may play a factor in their showdown, with forecasts predicting cooler temperatures on Tuesday. Raducanu has shown adaptability in varying conditions, while Gauff's powerful game typically thrives in faster conditions. The match is scheduled as the third night session match on Centrale Court, with play expected to begin around 8:30 PM local time.
Looking Ahead
This marks Raducanu's first appearance in the fourth round of a WTA 1000 event since her breakthrough 2021 season. Her performance against Kudermetova demonstrated the mental toughness that defined her US Open run, saving 7 of 9 break points faced. "I'm taking it one match at a time," she emphasized. "Every win builds confidence, but the focus now is recovering well and preparing for another tough battle against Coco." Tennis fans worldwide will eagerly await this clash of young stars, which could prove pivotal for both players' seasons.