Emma Raducanu has returned to action after just shy of a month out, claiming a much-needed victory in Seoul after being dumped out of the US Open in the very first round.
Many had questioned the 21-year-old in the run-up to the final Grand Slam of the season, having impressed in Washington before then snubbing both Toronto and Cincinnati as she was pointed towards the qualifying rounds.
Opting instead to just focus on herself in training, this did not pay off, losing in the first round to Sofia Kenin and proving many doubters right. This also led Andy Roddick to question Raducanu’s scheduling choices.
However, now seeking to enjoy a strong end to the year, this Asian leg of the WTA could prove crucial in building the foundation for a strong 2025.
Emma Raducanu wins on return to the tennis court
Fitness-wise, today’s win over Peyton Stearns will certainly stand her in good stead going forward, having won in two sets across a hard-fought two hours and 43 minutes.
It was an all-out slog in which the match ebbed and flowed, however it always felt like Emma Raducanu was the most likely to claim the victory.
She did it in the most roundabout way though, winning both sets on a tiebreak.
Sky Sports commentator Barry Cowan was not so impressed though, stating on the live commentary: ‘That was a battle. Loads of breaks of serves, especially in that tie break. It was extraordinary. Nobody could win a service point. Raducanu served for the match.
‘110 unforced errors [combined] but for Raducanu she has the victory, two tie-break sets. Raducanu can now look forward to a match against Yuan on Thursday. She knows she needs to play better.’
Emma Raducanu’s fitness is constantly improving
Whilst many might seek to lambast her fitness levels, given they have plagued her for many years now, few can argue against the progress made.
After all, despite so much scrutiny surrounding her schedule this year, 2024 was always bound to be one of recovery and steady growth given how 2023 was so riddled with injuries.
The Great British star has earned a little bit of respite after such a whirlwind start to her career, as the 2021 US Open champion is still seeking to live up to such impossible standards.
However, coming out the other end of such a gruelling match earlier today, in which she twice won the tiebreak, showcases her marked progress.
Just when she looked poised to throw the second set away after she had served for the match, she upped her level to break Stearns back and then enjoy an emphatic tiebreak, summoning all her physical acumen.
Last year, Raducanu could have only dreamed of such a match. 2025 could be the real breakthrough for her now, where she actually establishes herself as a consistent top-level athlete.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
