Emma Raducanu’s preparations for the upcoming US Open gathered momentum with an impressive straight-sets victory over Marta Kostyuk at the DC Open in Washington. The British No. 3 overcame the Ukrainian world No. 27 in a hard-fought encounter, winning 7-6 (4), 6-4 to secure her place in the second round.
Raducanu, playing her first singles match since her spirited performance against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at Wimbledon, showcased resilience and sharp shot-making under challenging conditions. The opening set lasted 71 minutes, with both players struggling to hold serve as they exchanged early breaks. Despite surrendering a 4-0 lead in the tie-break, Raducanu kept her composure to edge the set 7-6.
In the second set, Raducanu looked stronger and more composed. She quickly broke Kostyuk’s serve and established a 3-0 lead, appearing on course for a straightforward finish. However, Kostyuk, who came into the tournament on a five-match losing streak, fought back to level at 4-4. Raducanu held firm, forcing errors at crucial moments and capitalizing on a Kostyuk double fault to earn two match points. She converted the second opportunity to wrap up the victory.
Speaking after the match, Raducanu praised her opponent and highlighted her own mental strength, saying that staying tough in critical moments was key to the win. The result boosts her confidence as she continues her preparation for the season’s final Grand Slam.
Meanwhile, tennis legend Venus Williams made headlines by becoming the oldest WTA player to win a singles match in over two decades. At 45 years old, Williams defeated fellow American Peyton Stearns 6-3, 6-4 in a contest that featured 10 service breaks. This victory marks her first singles win since August 2023 and sets up a last-16 clash with fifth seed Magdalena Frech. Williams, who recently returned from a lengthy 16-month break, credited mental fortitude and hard work as the keys to her enduring success.
On the men’s side, Cameron Norrie delivered a notable performance by defeating world No. 7 Lorenzo Musetti. After losing the first set 3-6, Norrie rallied strongly to take the next two sets 6-2, 6-3. The win marks his first victory over a top-10 opponent since Indian Wells 2023 and propels him into the last 16.
