Raducanu Ready for US Open Return as She Targets First Win Since 2021 Triumph

Emma Raducanu returns to the US Open with renewed confidence and high hopes as she aims to recapture the magic that saw her win the 2021 title in spectacular fashion. The 21-year-old Brit faces American Sofia Kenin, a fellow Grand Slam champion, in a highly anticipated first-round clash on Tuesday night.

The match, set to start at around 23:30 BST (18:30 local time), marks a significant moment for Raducanu, who burst onto the world stage as a teenager in New York three years ago. Her improbable run from qualifier to champion captivated fans worldwide, but the journey since then has been filled with challenges. Raducanu’s follow-up appearance at Flushing Meadows in 2022 ended in a first-round exit, and she missed last year’s tournament after wrist and ankle surgeries forced an early end to her season.

Despite these setbacks, Raducanu has shown encouraging signs of a resurgence in 2024. She made a notable run to the fourth round at Wimbledon, which helped her climb back into the world’s top 75. More recently, she reached the quarter-finals in Washington, showing flashes of the form that once made her one of the most talked-about talents in tennis.

Ahead of her return to the site of her breakthrough victory, Raducanu reflected on her connection to the US Open and her excitement about competing once again at Flushing Meadows. “I love this tournament and I have amazing memories from it,” she said. “It’s a great feeling to be back, to see my face on the wall, and my name on the trophy.”

Raducanu remains optimistic about her future, confident that time is still on her side. “I’m still only 21 years old, so I have a lot of years to win this title and the other Slams. I’m feeling good,” she added.

Tuesday’s match against Kenin promises to be a tough test. Kenin, a former Australian Open champion, is also seeking a return to form after a series of injuries derailed her progress in recent seasons. With both players keen to make a statement, the encounter could set the tone for Raducanu’s campaign in New York.

Raducanu isn’t the only Briton in action on day two of the final Grand Slam of the 2024 season. Katie Boulter, Jack Draper, and Dan Evans are all set to compete as they look to make their mark in the tournament.

As Raducanu steps back onto the court where her career-defining moment took place, she’ll be aiming to build on her recent progress and take another step toward reclaiming the title she first won as a teenage sensation. All eyes will be on her as she looks to rekindle the magic and embark on another memorable run at the US Open.