Summary:
- British No. 2 Emma Raducanu cruised to the Last 16 at the Miami Open on Sunday.
- The 22-year-old’s performance overwhelmed American McCartney Kessler before the latter retired because of an injury.
- Next up, Raducanu will meet Amanda Anisimova, who recently defeated Indian Wells champion Mirra Anreeva.
Emma Raducanu put on an excellent performance at the Miami Open on Sunday, overwhelming McCartney Kessler before the American was forced to retire due to a lower back injury.
Full Control for Raducanu
The player with Romanian and Chinese origins was in complete control from the outset, bouncing back from an early service break to reel off eight consecutive games.
Leading 6-1, 3-0, the 22-year-old watched as Kessler called for the physio before ultimately deciding she could not continue.
The British No. 2 showcased the same dominance that saw her upset world No. 10 Emma Navarro in the previous round, booking her spot in the last 16.
Her next challenge comes in the form of Amanda Anisimova, who pulled off a hard-fought 7-6 (7-5), 2-6, 6-3 victory over Indian Wells champion Mirra Andreeva.
The two are set to clash at approximately 19:00 on Monday, with the match airing live on Sky Sports Tennis.
“It’s a Different Approach This Week”
Reflecting on her approach this week, Raducanu shared insight into her mindset before stepping onto the court.
I think it’s a different approach this week. I think five minutes before the match I was playing spike ball with the team. It helps me to relax.
She emphasized the importance of playing with freedom, noting:
When I’m playing my best tennis I’m really expressing my personality. I’d say I’m a bit of a free spirit so I don’t need restrictions or being told what to do. I think when I’m being really authentic, that’s when I’m playing my best.
The 21-year-old was pleased with her performance, particularly her movement and defensive play.
My movement is pretty good right now. I think I’m defending better, and I’m returning really well. I’m pretty happy with most areas of my game.
She further added, explaining that is something she was looking to “keep improving”.
Speaking to Gigi Salmon after the match, Raducanu highlighted her mental focus as a key factor in her success.
“I Was Happiest With My Focus”
I was happiest with my focus. That’s such a big part of tennis and especially in a match like this. I’m in the third round and I haven’t been at this stage of a tournament in a while, so I’m very happy with that.
Raducanu credits much of her recent physical resilience to her training with renowned fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura.
I haven’t had any major injuries, which is the biggest struggle I’ve had in the past few years, and touch wood, my body’s okay right now. The movement in the corners…I’m getting to a lot more balls by practicing it and challenging myself to get to each ball. I think I developed the confidence and the hand skills to kind of do something with it while I’m there as well.
The Briton also spoke about turning her feelings around about Miami Open.
I came here the last few years, and I haven’t won a match, so it was definitely a challenge going into the first round
The 22-year-old commented, adding that she was “happy to have put together a few good performances in a row”.
Can Emma continue her good form? Get the latest odds from the best offshore bookmakers for UK Players