Emma Raducanu continued her journey towards the main draw of the US Open by defeating Peyton Stearns in straight sets, securing her spot in the quarter-finals of the Washington Open.
The British player, who opted not to compete for Team GB at the Olympics, triumphed over the American with a score of 7-6, 6-2, despite facing long delays due to unexpected rain. She is set to take on the winner of the Thursday match between wild card Paula Badosa and third seed Liudmila Samsonova.
Raducanu faced challenges in the fourth game, surviving two break points as her double faults began to accumulate, but she demonstrated determination by closing out the game and breaking her opponent in the fifth.
Stearns, ranked No 51 globally, showcased some impressive shots, but Raducanu maintained her composure until heavy rain interrupted the match just as she was serving for the first set. After a two-hour delay, she secured the opening set with a tiebreak victory of 7-6 (6).
“It’s tricky today, especially when you’re rained off at such a pivotal moment. It can change the match’s dynamics,” Raducanu stated. “I think I handled the situation well, coming back strong and toughing out that tiebreak.”
With the first set won, the 2021 US Open Champion broke Stearns early in the second set, establishing a quick lead at 3-0.
Raducanu, currently ranked No 69 in the world, expressed her gratitude to the crowd for their patience during the late-night match. “I expected a challenging match against Peyton, particularly since [she] was playing at home,” she affirmed. “I feel like I’ve been on a good run these past few months and that I’m gaining momentum.”
The 21-year-old, who is still navigating her recovery after wrist and ankle surgeries, chose to skip the competition in Paris, as she did not want to transition back to playing on clay at Roland Garros before the upcoming US Open.
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“I’ve made notable progress in my game over the past few months,” Raducanu remarked prior to the tournament. “I started the grass season ranked outside the top 200 and finished in the top 100, which I consider a success. It has likely ensured me a slot in the main draw of the US Open, which was crucial for me. I really wanted to qualify for the slams.
“Compared to a year ago, I hadn’t even touched a tennis ball then. In fact, I didn’t pick up a racket until late November. I’m delighted with where I am now—competing, healthy, and enjoying my tennis.”
