Emma Raducanu produced a commanding performance at Queen’s Club, cruising past Spain’s Cristina Bucșa 6-1, 6-2 in just over an hour. In her first WTA singles match at the venue, Raducanu looked sharp and confident, describing her performance as “very clean and clinical.” Displaying impressive shot-making and strong movement, she overwhelmed her opponent with precision and energy.
Raducanu said she had been “locked in” throughout and highlighted her focus on staying relaxed and expressive on court as key to her success. Smiling during rallies and enjoying the moment appeared to help her find rhythm and freedom in her game. “I just need to be free and expressive,” she explained. “Then certain moments of creativity can come up.”
The match was a stark contrast to their previous encounter earlier this year, when Bucșa had upset Raducanu at the Singapore Open. This time, Raducanu controlled proceedings from early on, breaking serve to lead 3-1 in the first set and wrapping it up in just 25 minutes. Bucșa offered slightly more resistance in the second, but Raducanu’s sharp cross-court backhands and effective serving ensured a swift finish.
Despite recent issues with a back spasm, Raducanu showed little sign of discomfort. She acknowledged the nerves before the match but was proud of how she overcame them. “It was one of those days that you feel really good on the court,” she said. “You need to capitalise on those days.”
Next, she faces world No 41 Rebecca Sramkova in the last 16, a potentially tougher challenge. Still, Raducanu’s all-around performance suggested she is gaining confidence and rhythm on grass, an encouraging sign as the grass-court season builds momentum.
Earlier in the day, Katie Boulter battled through a tough three-setter to defeat Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic 7-6 (4), 1-6, 6-4. The match was unpredictable, featuring 13 breaks of serve. Boulter struggled in the second set but regained control in the decider to secure her place in the last 16, where she will face Russia’s Diana Shnaider.
“She’s such a tough competitor,” Boulter said of Tomljanovic. “But sometimes the biggest wins are these ones, because they’re the ones that give you the confidence.”
Heather Watson also advanced, beating Yulia Putintseva 6-4, 6-3. At 33, Watson is relishing the opportunity to play at home and will next face former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. She joins Raducanu, Boulter, and Sonay Kartal in the last 16, marking a strong showing for British women’s tennis at Queen’s Club.
