PARIS — Emma Raducanu delivered a gutsy performance at Roland Garros, battling through illness to secure a hard-fought first-round victory against qualifier Renata Zarazúa. The 2021 US Open champion, making her first French Open appearance since 2022, showed remarkable resilience to win 6-3, 6-4 despite visibly struggling with physical discomfort.
Raducanu, who missed last year’s tournament due to wrist and ankle surgeries, admitted afterward that she had been unwell in the lead-up to the match. "I was really struggling," she told reporters. "I woke up this morning feeling pretty rough, but I just told myself to fight through it. I’m really proud of how I managed."
A Gritty Performance Under Pressure
The 21-year-old Brit, currently ranked No. 165 after her injury layoff, faced a tricky opponent in Zarazúa, who had come through qualifying and was playing with confidence. Raducanu’s movement appeared labored at times, but she relied on her superior shot-making and mental toughness to navigate the match.
Key moments that defined her victory:
- A crucial break in the eighth game of the first set, sealed with a stunning cross-court backhand winner.
- Saving three break points at 4-4 in the second set with a mix of aggressive serving and clutch net play.
- Closing out the match with a fearless forehand down the line on her second match point.
Raducanu’s Road to Recovery
Since her fairytale US Open triumph, Raducanu has faced a series of setbacks, including multiple surgeries and coaching changes. Her return to clay this season has been a gradual process, with mixed results in Stuttgart and Madrid. However, her fighting spirit in Paris suggests she is regaining her competitive edge.
"It’s been a long road back," she said. "Every match feels like a step forward. Today wasn’t pretty, but it’s about finding a way. That’s what matters in Grand Slams."
A Daunting Next Challenge: Swiatek Awaits
The victory sets up a blockbuster second-round clash with world No. 1 and defending champion Iga Świątek, who demolished qualifier Leolia Jeanjean 6-1, 6-2 in her opener. Świątek, a three-time Roland Garros winner, is the overwhelming favorite, but Raducanu remains undaunted.
"Iga’s an incredible player, especially on clay," Raducanu acknowledged. "But I’ll go out there and give it everything. You never know what can happen in tennis."
Tactical Adjustments Needed
To challenge Świątek, Raducanu will need to elevate her game significantly. Analysts suggest she must:
- Improve her first-serve percentage (which was just 58% against Zarazúa).
- Shorten points by being more aggressive on Świątek’s second serve.
- Recover physically, as the Pole’s relentless baseline game will test her stamina.
A Test of Character
Regardless of the outcome, Raducanu’s performance in Paris has already demonstrated her resilience. Former British No. 1 Tim Henman praised her mentality, telling the BBC: "Emma’s ability to dig deep when not at her best is a hallmark of champions. This win could be a turning point."
With her health improving and confidence growing, Raducanu’s French Open campaign—whether it ends against Świątek or beyond—has already reignited belief in her potential. "I’m just happy to be competing again," she smiled. "Everything else is a bonus."
The second-round showdown is scheduled for Wednesday on Court Philippe-Chatrier. While the odds are stacked against her, Raducanu has proven she thrives as an underdog. Tennis fans worldwide will be watching to see if she can summon another magical performance.