Emma Raducanu delivered a stunning performance to sweep past 2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-3 and secure a place in the third round. Despite dealing with a lingering back injury and undisclosed personal issues leading up to the tournament, Raducanu showed remarkable maturity and resilience on Centre Court, producing one of her finest displays of the year.
The British No. 1 entered the match as the underdog against an in-form opponent. Vondrousova, although ranked 73rd, had recently claimed the Berlin Open title, defeating top players including Aryna Sabalenka and Madison Keys. She also held a psychological edge, having beaten Raducanu earlier this year in Abu Dhabi. However, the match script was rewritten as Raducanu rose to the occasion, dominating from the baseline and showing no signs of nerves.
Raducanu started strong, serving with precision and confidence. Her early hold of serve laid the foundation for a more aggressive baseline game. She frequently stepped inside the court to take the ball early, mixing up her shot selection and maintaining a relentless tempo. The turning point came in the first set when she chased down a wide ball and fired a running backhand passing shot down the line to secure a crucial break. Although she lost her next service game, she immediately broke back and went on to claim the set.
With momentum on her side, Raducanu pressed harder in the second set. Her forehand, a shot she has worked tirelessly to improve in recent months, became a potent weapon, pinning Vondrousova deep and forcing errors. Her return game also stood out, putting the Czech under constant pressure and denying her rhythm. Despite a few tense moments, Raducanu remained composed, especially on serve, where she saved break points with authority.
This performance marked not only a technical victory but also a personal breakthrough. Over the past few months, Raducanu has focused on creating a supportive environment, surrounding herself with trusted individuals who help her stay grounded and focused. Her partnership with coach Mark Petchey, although unconventional due to his broadcasting commitments, has played a pivotal role in her development. Together, they’ve rebuilt her serve and helped her embrace a more assertive style of play.
Now, Raducanu turns her attention to a blockbuster third-round clash against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. With renewed confidence, a clearer mindset, and significant improvements in her game, Raducanu heads into the challenge with belief and momentum. Her performance against Vondrousova was not just a win it was a powerful statement that she is ready to compete with the best once again.
