Emma Raducanu stepped back onto the WTA tour with a triumphant return, securing a thrilling first-round victory at the Korea Open in Seoul. The former US Open champion faced a formidable challenge in American opponent Peyton Stearns, but managed to clinch the match in a nail-biting two-hour and 43-minute battle.
First Competitive Match Since US Open
Ranked 70th in the world, Raducanu demonstrated resilience and tenacity in her first competitive match since an early exit from the US Open. Stearns, ranked 48th, was expected to be tough competition, being in good form heading into the match.
The match started with Raducanu breaking Stearns' serve in the opening game, setting the tone for a fiercely contested encounter. The first set featured an astonishing eight breaks of serve, underscoring the high-pressure environment both players were operating in.
Epic Tie-Breakers
The intensity of the match was evident as the first set extended into a tie-break. Raducanu managed to clinch the tie-break 7-4, taking the marathon 74-minute first set. Despite holding a 5-3 lead in the second set, Raducanu encountered resistance as Stearns broke her serve while she was serving for the match.
Stearns, determined to push the match into a decider, led 6-5 in the second set. However, Raducanu’s perseverance paid off once again as she won the second set 7-6 (7-5) in another tie-break that spanned 89 minutes.
Progressing to the Next Round
With this victory, Raducanu advances to the next round where she will face China's Yue Yuan, who is currently ranked 40th in the world. This upcoming match promises to be another stern test for the young Brit.
Post-match, Raducanu expressed her satisfaction with the hard-earned victory. "I'm proud to have made it through to the next round. It was tough and very humid," she said. Reflecting on her recent form and the challenge posed by Stearns, Raducanu added, "It was a tough match to get through. I haven't played many matches in the last few months."
She also gave credit to her opponent, recognizing Stearns’ recent performances. "Peyton is a really good player in good form, so I'm really pleased," she remarked.
Raducanu’s return to winning ways will surely boost her confidence as she continues her campaign in Seoul. With the next challenge looming on the horizon, all eyes will be on how Raducanu navigates her way against a higher-ranked opponent in Yue Yuan.