Emma Raducanu is back in the spotlight — but not in the way many expected. After a turbulent stretch where early exits, injury concerns, and coaching changes have dogged the former US Open champion, Raducanu is planting her flag once again: she’s returned to winning form, refocused, and more determined than ever. This year, her journey is looking less like a fairy-tale reprise and more like a gritty, inspiring saga.
Her recent run at the US Open saw her finally break through a mental barrier: her first match win at Flushing Meadows since her triumphant 2021 campaign. It was a dominant performance, too — she defeated Ena Shibahara 6-1, 6-2 in the opening round. That wasn’t just a win; it was proof she still has the power to dominate.
But success hasn’t come easily. After that high in New York, she fell to Elena Rybakina in the third round, a straight-sets loss that exposed the gap between Raducanu’s talent and what it takes to challenge the very top. She also made the bold decision to skip representing Great Britain in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, choosing to compete instead at the Korea Open. Some saw this as controversial. Others saw strategy — a focus on building ranking points, consistency, and match-play rather than overstretching herself.
A key figure in her resurgence has been her team. Earlier this year, she parted ways with coach Nick Cavaday — a decision forced in part by his health concerns. She has since made adjustments to her coaching structure, bringing in fresh perspective and guidance at a critical moment. These changes seem to be paying off.
Raducanu also has something extra driving her: the hunger to step out of the “former champion” label and reclaim her place among the elite. She is currently hovering just outside the top 30, eyeing top-20, and hoping for seeding in upcoming majors. Every match matters, especially when facing the power hitters of today’s tour. She must adapt her baseline game, manage big serves, handle pressure moments. According to former interim coach Mark Petchey, it won’t be easy — but Raducanu has shown signs she’s learning.
Whether or not she lifts another Grand Slam remains to be seen. What is certain is this: Emma Raducanu is no longer just the girl who won as a qualifier. She’s become someone writing her own chapter — messy, ambitious, real. If her recent performances are a preview, then the next few months could define not just her rankings, but her legacy.
