CLUJ-NAPOCA, Romania — British tennis sensation Emma Raducanu has stormed into the final of the 2024 Transylvania Open, marking a significant and emotional milestone in her comeback journey. The 2021 US Open champion, playing in the country of her father's birth, has captivated the Romanian crowd and will now compete for her first WTA Tour title since her historic Grand Slam triumph in New York.
The final represents a pivotal moment for Raducanu, who has battled a series of injuries and surgeries over the past two years. Her run in Cluj-Napoca, featuring dominant straight-sets victories, signals a powerful return to form and confidence. The local support has been fervent, with fans embracing her Romanian heritage, creating a unique and supportive atmosphere for the 21-year-old.
When and Where is the Transylvania Open Final?
The championship match of the WTA 250 Transylvania Open is scheduled for Sunday, February 11, 2024. The final will be the last match of the day session at the BTarena in Cluj-Napoca. Organizers have tentatively set the start time for not before 3:00 PM local time (Romania, EET). For viewers in the United Kingdom, this translates to a 1:00 PM GMT start.
It is always advisable for fans to check the official WTA or tournament social media channels for any last-minute schedule adjustments, especially if the preceding doubles final runs long. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with a sold-out arena rallying behind Raducanu.
How to Watch the Final on TV and Online
For tennis fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Coverage is expected on the Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Tennis channels. Subscribers can also stream the action live via the Sky Go app.
International viewers can access the final through their local broadcast partners. In the United States, the match will be available for streaming on Tennis Channel and through the Tennis Channel Plus subscription service. For a global list of broadcasters, the WTA’s official website provides a comprehensive guide.
Key viewing options include:
- UK & Ireland: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Tennis, Sky Go
- USA: Tennis Channel, Tennis Channel Plus
- Romania & Europe: Digi Sport, Eurosport
- Streaming: WTA TV (subscription service in certain regions)
Who is Emma Raducanu Playing in the Final?
Standing between Raducanu and the Transylvania Open trophy is the tournament's top seed, Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil. The world No. 13 is a formidable opponent, known for her powerful left-handed game, heavy topspin, and exceptional fitness. Haddad Maia is a two-time WTA 1000 finalist (Madrid 2023, Toronto 2023) and reached the semifinals of the French Open last year, establishing herself as a consistent force on the tour.
This will be the first-ever professional meeting between Raducanu and Haddad Maia, making it a fascinating tactical showdown. The Brazilian’s physical, grinding style from the baseline will contrast sharply with Raducanu’s aggressive, first-strike tennis and improved court movement showcased this week.
A Closer Look at the Finalists
Emma Raducanu (GBR): Currently ranked No. 252 (projected to rise inside the Top 150 with this final run), Raducanu entered Cluj on a protected ranking. Her path to the final has been impressive, dropping only one set. She has displayed a potent blend of powerful serving, precise returning, and a newfound willingness to finish points at the net. The emotional connection with the crowd has been a clear boost.
Beatriz Haddad Maia (BRA): The highest-ranked player in the draw, Haddad Maia has lived up to her seeding. Her game is built on relentless depth, a biting lefty slice, and incredible defensive skills. She poses a significant challenge on return, especially against second serves, and her experience in big matches over the last 18 months is a major asset.
The Road to the Championship Sunday
Raducanu’s journey to the final has been a statement of intent. She opened with a commanding win over Romanian wildcard Ana Bogdan, before defeating higher-ranked players like Nuria Parrizas Diaz and a resurgent Ana Bogdan. Her semifinal victory was particularly convincing, showcasing her best level of tennis since her return.
Haddad Maia’s route has been equally dominant. She has leveraged her top-seed status and experience, navigating a tricky draw that included the big-serving Ekaterina Alexandrova in the semifinals. Her ability to control rallies and force errors will be her primary weapon against Raducanu’s aggressive play.
Speaking after her semifinal win, an emotional Raducanu reflected on her week, stating: "To be here in Romania, with this support, it means so much. I’m just really enjoying competing again, playing free, and I can’t wait for tomorrow. It’s a final, and I’m going to leave everything out there."
What a Win Would Mean for Raducanu
A victory in Cluj-Napoca would be monumental for Raducanu’s career trajectory. Beyond the obvious boost in ranking points and confidence, it would:
- Mark her second WTA Tour title and first since the 2021 US Open.
- Serve as a powerful validation of her decision to change coaches and approach during her injury layoff.
- Provide massive momentum heading into the upcoming Middle East swing and the rest of the 2024 season.
- Be a storybook ending to a week deeply connected to her personal heritage.
Conversely, for Haddad Maia, a title would solidify her Top 15 status, earn her a fifth career WTA trophy, and prove her ability to win tournaments as the favorite—a key step for any player with aspirations of breaking into the elite Top 10.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Tennis Final
The 2024 Transylvania Open final presents a captivating clash of styles, stories, and stakes. For Emma Raducanu, it is a chance to complete a fairytale week in Romania and announce her full-throated return to the top of the game. For Beatriz Haddad Maia, it is an opportunity to claim a well-deserved title and demonstrate her consistency.
The match promises high-quality tennis, with Raducanu’s flat, aggressive shots aiming to penetrate the court against Haddad Maia’s heavy, high-bouncing topspin. The Brazilian’s physicality will test Raducanu’s movement and stamina, while Raducanu’s precision and crowd support could disrupt Haddad Maia’s rhythm.
As the tennis world tunes in, the final word goes to tournament director Patrick Ciorcila, who captured the sentiment of the week: "Emma has brought an incredible energy here. She is playing with her heart, and the people feel that. It will be a final to remember."
Set your reminders for Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re a fan of Raducanu’ remarkable comeback story, a follower of Haddad Maia’s steady rise, or simply a lover of high-stakes tennis, the Transylvania Open final is not to be missed.