Emma Raducanu showcased her revitalized tennis form by convincingly defeating Daria Kasatkina at the Strasbourg International tournament.
The British number two participated in the round of 32 after receiving a late wildcard entry into the event.
This proved to be an excellent decision, as Raducanu delivered a dominant performance, beating World Number 17 Kasatkina in straight sets with scores of 6-1, 6-3.
Previously, Raducanu, who is ranked 43rd globally, had struggled against the Russian player, failing to win a set in their three prior encounters.
However, this time, the 21-year-old was in spectacular form, managing to break her opponent`s serve eight times throughout the match.
Commenting on her strong showing, the tennis player, who grew up in Bromley, remarked:
“I`m really proud of my performance – I was very aggressive and I maintained my focus in the second set when it was getting close.”
“I think I`ve been building towards this. It`s a great feeling.”
“As I spend more time on clay I`m beginning to like it more and more. I`m building my relationship with the surface.”
The clay courts in Strasbourg, which hosts her final tournament before the French Open commences on May 25th, utilize the identical surface used at Roland Garros.
Raducanu is set to compete in the French Open for only the second time in her career, having missed the previous two editions.
Her only prior participation was in 2022, where she reached the second round.
Reacting to her impressive victory online, fans shared their excitement:
“What a performance! Emma dismantled a top-20 player like it was centre court at Wimbledon. Ruthless, elegant, composed — the Raducanu renaissance is real. On to the last 16!”
“Emma Raducanu with a very dominate performance against a top 20 player who she`s struggle with in the past, love to see that.”
“Raducanu raising her game lately.”
Raducanu`s victory means she will face American Danielle Collins in the round of 16, with their match scheduled for May 21st.
