I’m happy with how I’m feeling on the court right now. I think I did some great work on my game and I’m looking forward to testing it on a match court.
Emma Raducanu is stepping back onto the WTA Tour with renewed confidence and a streamlined approach as she prepares for the Madrid Open. The 22-year-old British tennis star, who has navigated a series of coaching changes and injury setbacks since her 2021 US Open triumph, is now focusing on consistency and mental clarity.
In a recent interview, Raducanu expressed satisfaction with her current form:
“I’m happy with how I’m feeling on the court right now. I think I did some great work on my game and I’m looking forward to testing it on a match court.”
This optimism follows a productive 10-day training block in Los Angeles with Mark Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray and respected broadcaster. Their collaboration, though informal, has been beneficial. Raducanu appreciates Petchey’s familiarity and trustworthiness, having known him since before her US Open victory.
Petchey’s current role with the Tennis Channel limits his availability, but Raducanu is content with their flexible arrangement. She is also supported by long-time confidante Jane O’Donoghue and fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura, creating a comfortable and focused team environment.
Adopting a ‘less is more’ philosophy, Raducanu is prioritizing quality over quantity in her training. She acknowledges the importance of balancing intense practice with adequate rest to maintain peak performance throughout the demanding tennis season.
Raducanu’s recent quarter-final run at the Miami Open, her best performance at a WTA 1000 event since her Grand Slam win, indicates that her revised approach is yielding positive results. As she faces Dutch player Suzan Lamens in the first round of the Madrid Open, Raducanu aims to build on this momentum.
With a focus on mental well-being and a supportive team, Raducanu is poised to make a significant impact on the clay courts of Madrid. Her journey reflects a mature and thoughtful progression in her professional career.