‘I really like her’… Emma Raducanu says 29-year-old WTA star has really helped her recently

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Emma Raducanu is back in action today as she faces Ons Jabeur in the Abu Dhabi Open.

The Great British star cruised into the second round with a straight-set victory over Marie Bouzkova, whilst today’s opponent is gearing up to face just her third match of 2024.

Whilst this clash boasts many interesting storylines, the relationship shared between this veteran of the sport and the young sensation only heightens interest in their imminent on-court battle. 

But what advice has Jabeur given to Raducanu that has helped her over the years? Let’s take a closer look…

What Emma Raducanu said about Ons Jabeur

Despite being the only one of the two to boast a major title, Raducanu is still so incredibly young and inexperienced.

Given her presence at the top level for so long, it is easy to forget that.

So, any piece of advice she can receive from those who have been on tour for far longer than she has will be invaluable towards her building the foundation to enjoy a long and successful career in the WTA.

Speaking to Jabeur is certainly only set to aid in this regard too, as she revealed the help already received from the world number six: ‘We played here a year ago, just about, at the Mubadala Exhibition and it was a great match for the fans. She’s definitely the home favourite here and rightfully so.

‘I really like Ons. She’s someone who’s kind of taken me under her wing as I’ve been new to the tour. I’m really looking forward to it because a lot of people were saying to me, ‘Oh, Ons, Ons, Ons,’ and I was like, I’m playing Maria, who’s ranked like 30th in the world and that’s not an easy match.

‘I’m really pleased to put myself in this situation and yeah, I’m going out with nothing to lose against her.’

An interesting clash in Abu Dhabi

Although Jabeur is naturally the heavy home favourite as the two clash later today, it is not expected to be a wholly comfortable afternoon for the Tunisian.

After all, Raducanu has impressed on her comeback, starting 2024 with a string of fine, battling performances as she regains her fitness after so long out.

Last year was laden with injuries for the 2021 US Open winner, and as such she has dropped to 296th in the world.

However, her performance levels have been slowly increasing going into February, utilising cute angles to move her opponents about the court.

Although the raw power and touch of finesse that Jabeur boasts should be enough to overcome the 21-year-old, it will not be as comfortable as the 290 places between their respective rankings suggest it might be.

Perhaps, this persisting advice which the 29-year-old superstar seeks to give to her young friend might come back to bite her today with an upset. Regardless, there is little to no pressure on Raducanu today, which makes her dangerous.