Emma Raducanu is back in action later tonight, as she arguably faces her toughest task since returning from injury.
The 21-year-old is set to meet Aryna Sabalenka in her Indian Wells Round of 32 match.
Having impressed thus far, facing the world number two is certain to offer an imposing challenge, especially given it was less than two months ago that she tasted victory in the first Grand Slam of the year.
And yet, she seems unafraid, attesting that it is a clash that breeds excitement rather than anxiety.
What Emma Raducanu said about Aryna Sabalenka
Speaking to The Times, the 2021 US Open champion would preview the clash, which is due to start around 8 pm GMT tonight.
Having failed in all of her previous meetings against top-ten opponents, Raducanu would have every right to feel somewhat apprehensive about the challenge laid out before her.
But instead, she has plans to use this as a free hit, and that lack of pressure could make her a dangerous prospect for the Belarusian.
She noted: ‘It will be a great test. It’s a match that I’m really looking forward to because she’s had such a great run over the last few years and she’s really at the top of the game right now. I want to play the best and see where I’m at.
‘I think you always have certain standards when you’re practising. You have certain players in mind. You hit a shot and think how a particular player would treat it. I think it will be good to get the the idea of it [Sabalenka’s power] live, so then you have a comparison, because if not, then you don’t really know and you’re a bit in the dark.’
A real test on Raducanu’s injury comeback
Having enjoyed a fine start to the year regarding her fitness, given last year was one wrought with injury issues, this has certainly been a season of success thus far even if she is yet to enjoy a truly deep run in any competition.
After all, she seems to be back enjoying her tennis again at last, and it has bred some impressive performances.
This year, or at least the start of it, is certainly one where the focus is on retaining fitness rather than regaining silverware.
However, given Sabalenka was dumped out of the Dubai Open early, and struggled past her opening-round match in California, this is not the same unstoppable force who cruised to the Australian Open title in January.
There are frailties to exploit, and should Raducanu shock the world and claim victory, it would outline one of the best wins in her short career thus far.
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