‘The renaissance is real’ – Emma Raducanu dismantles superior opponent ‘like it was Centre Court at Wimbledon’
EMMA RADUCANU continued her tennis renaissance by dismantling Daria Kasatkina at the Strasbourg international.
The British number two was in action in the round of 32 of the tournament after accepting a late wildcard invitation.
And it proved to be an inspired choice as she beat world number 17 Kasatkina in straight sets 6-1, 6-3.
Raducanu, herself ranked number 43 in the world, had failed to win a set across three previous meetings with her Australian opponent.
But this time the 22-year-old found her groove to break eight of her opponents service games.
On her performance, the Bromley raised tennis ace said: “I’m really proud of my performance – I was very aggressive and I maintained my focus in the second set when it was getting close.
“I think I’ve been building towards this. It’s a great feeling.
“As I spend more time on clay I’m beginning to like it more and more. I’m building my relationship with the surface.”
The clay surface of Strasbourg – which is her final tournament before the French Open begins on May 25 – is identical to Rolland Garros.
Raducanu is set to play in just her second ever French Open after missing the last two editions.
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Her only other appearance came in 2022 where she reached the second round.
Reacting to the stunning display on social media, one fan said: “What a performance! Emma dismantled a top-20 player like it was centre court at Wimbledon.
“Ruthless, elegant, composed — the Raducanu renaissance is real. On to the last 16!”
A second said: “Emma Raducanu with a very dominate performance against a top 20 player who she’s struggle with in the past, love to see that.”
A third said: “Raducanu raising her game lately.”
Raducanu’s win has set up a last-16 tie against American Danielle Collins that will be played out on May 21.