Emma Raducanu is making waves at the Italian Open 2025, showcasing resilience and strategic prowess on the clay courts of Rome. After a turbulent season, the British No. 2 is “finding her feet” on clay, progressing into the fourth round and setting up a blockbuster clash with Coco Gauff.
A “Mental” Adjustment
Raducanu’s path to the third round wasn’t without its challenges. Originally slated to face Ekaterina Alexandrova, she had to mentally adjust when she learned hours before the match that she would be playing Jil Teichmann, a left-handed player. “To be honest, it was pretty mental,” Raducanu admitted. Despite the late switch and Teichmann’s experience on clay, Raducanu secured an impressive 6-2, 6-2 victory. She highlighted the difficulties of facing a left-hander, noting she hadn’t practiced against one since February. Overcoming this challenge, Raducanu stated, “I’m really proud of myself how I fought through”.
Tactical Acumen and Aggression
Raducanu’s aggressive approach and tactical adjustments proved crucial in her victory over Teichmann. “She was aggressive, kept her foot on the pedal throughout on a day when things could have got tricky,” said Miles Maclagan. Raducanu herself acknowledged the need for a focused approach on clay, stating, “I have to be super focused on every single point, just to get my feet right, try and not fall over”.
Kudermetova Clash: Mental Fortitude on Display
In the third round, Raducanu faced Veronika Kudermetova, overcoming a first-set loss to win 5-7, 6-0, 6-1. After losing the first set 7-5, Raducanu broke Kudermetova in the opening game of the second set and only lost one more game. Raducanu displayed mental fortitude, turning the match around despite an incident involving the umpire. After winning the second set, Raducanu walked towards her team, coach Mark Petchey and mentor Jane O’Donoghue, and the chair umpire called her back and explained that she could only speak with her team if there was a medical time-out. Raducanu apologized for the error.
A Complicated Relationship with Clay
Raducanu has been open about her “complicated” relationship with clay. “It’s complicated! It’s complicated. Could you put that as the tagline? It’s complicated,” she told Tennis Channel. She elaborated, “Some days I like it, I feel like I have good time on the ball. Some days I feel like my positioning and my feet are going to go under me. It’s love-hate sometimes but I’m working on it and it’s getting better”. Despite her reservations, Raducanu is demonstrating improvement on the surface. “I still don’t really feel comfortable on clay but in a way it helps me because I have to be super focused on every single point,” she explained.
The Gauff Showdown
Raducanu’s impressive run has set the stage for a compelling fourth-round match against Coco Gauff. Gauff arrives in Rome in great form, having recently reached the final of the Madrid Open. This upcoming match promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s most exciting talents.
Finding Balance On and Off the Court
Raducanu is also prioritizing her well-being and finding a balance between tennis and personal life. She spoke about the need to relax and switch off, engaging in activities that make her happy. “I think now I’m a lot better at just you know relaxing at switching off at doing things that make me happy,” Raducanu said. She mentioned enjoying yoga, walking, and even doing her laundry at a laundromat to experience a “glimmer of the day”.
Partnering with Petchey
Raducanu is working with coach Mark Petchey. Petchey started helping her informally at the Miami Open, balancing his coaching role with his duties as a Tennis Channel commentator. Raducanu has given insights into their work, and their partnership appears to be thriving.
Raducanu’s Rome Renaissance
Emma Raducanu’s performance at the Italian Open 2025 signals a positive shift in her career. With a combination of tactical adaptability, mental strength, and a growing comfort on clay, she is poised to make a significant impact. As she continues her campaign in Rome, Raducanu is not only “finding her feet” but also showcasing the resilience and determination that define her as a player.
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