(MENAFN-IANS) New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) Emma Raducanu reflected on her unique approach as she prepared for her second US Open since winning the title in 2021. The 21-year-old American will face fellow Grand Slam champion Sofia Kenin in the opening round on Tuesday, with the winner set to face sixth seed Jessica Pegula in the second round.
The 21-year-old emphasized her own path, explaining: “I just always do things a little bit differently,” Raducanu told BBC Sport. Despite reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon, Raducanu opted out of the Olympics and has played just one tournament in the last six weeks. She explains her decision-making process, noting: “I really wanted to play in Toronto, especially because I was born there, but there was too little time to qualify.”
“I was supposed to play on Sunday and I was finished (in Washington) late Friday night, so the flight there and the adjustment was just too tight for me.
“Otherwise, I just always do things a little differently.”
Raducanu made it to the quarterfinals in Washington, but was defeated by eventual champion Paula Badosa. Cincinnati was her next chance to continue her summer run that had seen her win 10 times in her last four events, as a trip to Toronto had been ruled out. However, the world number 71 decided not to qualify as she had not received a wildcard.
Although she hasn’t competed since her win in New York three years ago, she claims she doesn’t mind playing at this level.
Looking ahead, Raducanu is aware of the potential challenge of playing qualifying rounds but remains open to the idea. “I think I don’t mind playing qualifying rounds,” she says, stressing the benefits of getting used to the court and getting a better feel for the game. However, she has decided to focus on preparations this summer rather than competing in qualifying rounds.
With her ranking rising, Raducanu is poised for a strong end to the season, especially in Asia, where her heritage and fluent Mandarin could give her additional opportunities. On the fast-paced nature of tennis, she says: “Tennis is unforgiving in that respect, no matter who you are. It just keeps going… the next day it’s all water under the bridge.”
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