Emma Raducanu's 2025 tennis season: A journey of growth and challenges
Emma Raducanu, the British tennis star, had a remarkable 2025 season, marked by significant milestones and valuable lessons. Here's a breakdown of her journey, highlighting both her achievements and areas for improvement.
A Busy Schedule and Early Exit
Raducanu's season was packed with 22 tournaments, showcasing her dedication and determination. However, she made a wise decision to cut her season short by two weeks due to lingering illness and a bad back. This decision ensured her well-being and allowed her to focus on recovery.
A Year of Progress
Despite the early exit, 2025 was Raducanu's best year since her historic US Open victory in 2021. Physically, she demonstrated increased robustness, even as her back became a recurring challenge. This injury affected her preparation and performance on clay and grass, as well as her recent Ningbo Open match.
Back Issues and Structural Susceptibility
Raducanu's back problems are structural, making her more prone to injuries. She acknowledged this in May, highlighting the need for ongoing management. Despite this, her serve has become a stronger weapon, offering greater power and precision with its extended motion.
Top-10 Challenges
Beating the top-ranked players remains a hurdle for Raducanu. She faced tough losses against the elite, with only one victory over Emma Navarro in Miami. Her matches against Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina showcased her competitiveness, but the overall results were less encouraging.
Match Point Misses
One of Raducanu's most concerning habits emerged in Asia, where she struggled to convert match points. Last year's Wimbledon champion, Barbora Krejcikova, and Jessica Pegula both saved match points against her. This trend needs addressing to ensure consistent performance.
Serve and Return Improvements
Raducanu identified her serve and return as areas for improvement. She aims to enhance her serve's consistency and effectiveness, recognizing its importance in high-level matches. Her focus on starting points and overall game strategy is crucial for future success.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
Raducanu and her coach, Francisco Roig, are planning a pre-season training block. 2026 could begin with the United Cup team competition, where Raducanu and Jack Draper will represent Great Britain. This tournament offers ranking points, crucial for her Australian Open seed placement.
The Power of Coaching
Roig's coaching style has been instrumental in Raducanu's development. His calm presence and guidance have contributed to her confidence and performance on the court. With time for practice and strategy adjustments, Raducanu is poised for continued growth and success in the tennis world.
