Emma Raducanu Embraces Unconventional Approach Ahead of US Open

Emma Raducanu is once again embracing her unique approach to tennis as she gears up for just her second US Open appearance since her stunning victory in 2021. The 21-year-old British star will face American Sofia Kenin, a fellow Grand Slam champion, in the first round of the tournament on Tuesday. Should Raducanu advance, she could encounter sixth seed Jessica Pegula in the second round.

Raducanu’s journey has been anything but conventional. Since her remarkable triumph at Flushing Meadows as a teenage qualifier, she has been navigating the tour with her own distinct style. After reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon in July, Raducanu chose to skip the Olympics, leading to a relatively sparse competitive schedule over the past six weeks. She participated in only one tournament during this period.

Reflecting on her decision to miss the Toronto tournament “I really wanted to play in Toronto, especially because I was born there, but the turnaround was too tight for qualifying. I would have had to play on Sunday and I finished [in Washington] late Friday night. So flying there and adjusting just felt too rushed.”

Raducanu’s commitment to doing things her way is evident in her tournament choices and scheduling. After reaching the quarter-finals in Washington, where she was defeated by Paula Badosa, she looked forward to Cincinnati as her next opportunity to build momentum. However, without a wildcard invitation and a decision against entering qualifying, Raducanu chose to focus on preparation rather than competing in Cincinnati.

“I’m not opposed to playing in qualifying rounds. It’s a good way to adjust to the court and get a better feel for the game. But in this case, it made more sense to work on my game and rest before the US Open,” Raducanu said.

Looking ahead, Raducanu’s ranking might soon be high enough to bypass qualifying altogether. If she remains injury-free, she plans to compete in a series of tournaments in Asia this autumn. Her heritage and fluent Mandarin may also make wildcards more accessible in China, offering her a strong opportunity to end the season on a high note.

Raducanu’s recent performances, including her last 16 finish at Wimbledon, represent her best Grand Slam results since her US Open victory. As she and fellow young British player Jack Draper step into roles previously held by retired Andy Murray, Raducanu acknowledges the shift in the landscape of British tennis.

Raducanu was originally scheduled to partner with Murray in mixed doubles at Wimbledon but withdrew to prioritize her singles campaign. Reflecting on the absence of Murray, Raducanu noted, “Tennis moves on quickly. There’s always another match, always another tournament. Andy has achieved incredible things, and I watched him win the US Open, but tennis is fast-paced. What was significant yesterday becomes old news quickly.”

As Raducanu prepares for the US Open, her unconventional approach remains a defining feature of her career. Whether navigating tight schedules or bypassing traditional routes, Raducanu continues to chart her own course in the world of tennis.