Emma Raducanu is set to compete against Jessica Pegula in the Miami Open quarter-finals, marking one of the most important matches in her career since her victory at the 2021 US Open.
Raducanu`s strong performance continued as she defeated American player Amanda Anisimova, the 17th seed, in straight sets. This victory marks her best run since becoming the US Open champion at 18 years old.
Raducanu demonstrated excellent serving in the first set, not losing a single point on her serve. This impressive play is helping her climb into the top 50 of the world rankings.
Reflecting on her recent improvement, Raducanu mentioned feeling much better this week compared to Indian Wells, where she lost in the first round. She credited the positive influence of her support team, emphasizing the importance of trust and enjoyment off the court.
Raducanu highlighted the significance of playing authentically and creatively, noting that a rigid approach limits her ability to express herself. She is pleased with the freedom she has found this week.
Earlier in March, Raducanu ended a brief coaching trial with Vladimir Platenik after just two weeks, following her early exit from Indian Wells. She explained that the partnership “wasn`t quite heading in the right direction.”
Currently seeking a permanent coach, Raducanu is temporarily working with Jane O`Donoghue, her former mentor and LTA coach, and Mark Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray and commentator for the Tennis Channel.
Raducanu feels “comfortable” and “relaxed” in her current environment, which allows her to express herself both on and off the court.
She believes her current level of play is better than in Australia earlier this year. Raducanu is particularly proud of rediscovering her competitive spirit and determination, qualities she felt were missing in recent times.
Raducanu sees her increased hunger and competitive drive as the biggest positive takeaway from this week.
Petchey and O`Donoghue Bring Positivity
Since her US Open triumph, this is the first time Raducanu has won four consecutive matches and reached the quarter-finals of a WTA 1000 event.
Petchey, who previously coached Raducanu during her junior years, contributes to a more balanced approach. Raducanu explained that they focus on “switching on and off,” avoiding constant intensity.
She acknowledged her hard-working and intense nature but recognized that excessive focus can be counterproductive. The current team helps her relax and enjoy the process, incorporating fun activities like Spikeball into their routines, which brings “small doses of happiness.”
Platenik Partnership “Wasn`t Right at the Time”
Raducanu clarified that while she respects Vladimir Platenik`s experience and coaching abilities, their partnership “just wasn`t right at the time.”
She values the familiarity and long-standing connections with her current team members, finding comfort in their presence, especially after the disappointing Indian Wells tournament and the coaching change.
Raducanu feels that having trusted individuals around her has significantly improved her off-court well-being, which has positively impacted her performance and freedom on the court.
From Intense Training to Relaxation
Raducanu described changes in her warm-up routine in Miami, designed to promote relaxation before matches.
Previously, her warm-ups were very long and intensely focused, sometimes leaving her tired before matches. This week, they`ve incorporated “fun elements,” shortened some exercises, and added variety, including playing different sports to warm up.
This new approach helps her feel more relaxed and physically loose before stepping onto the court, which she believes has been beneficial this week.
Henman Praises Raducanu`s Hard Work
Tim Henman noted “positive signs” from Raducanu ahead of her match against Pegula.
He emphasized the importance of results and highlighted Raducanu`s resilience in her second match against Emma Navarro. Despite Navarro serving for the match, Raducanu persevered and won.
Henman pointed out Raducanu`s consistent tournament play this year, which, despite not always yielding immediate results, is a positive sign. He believes she is now benefiting from her hard work and improved fitness, avoiding previous injury setbacks.
He acknowledged that her partnership with physical trainer Yutaka Nakamura is still in its early stages, but the initial signs are encouraging. Henman concludes that Raducanu is currently in a “good place.”
Raducanu vs Pegula: Head-to-Head
Raducanu and Pegula have an even head-to-head record, with one win each. Pegula won their Cincinnati match in 2022, while Raducanu won at Eastbourne last year.
