Raducanu Eases Into US Open With Fastest Grand Slam Win

Raducanu Eases Into US Open With Fastest Grand Slam Win

Emma Raducanu made a triumphant return to Flushing Meadows, cruising past Japanese qualifier Ena Shibahara 6-1 6-2 in just 62 minutes to record the quickest Grand Slam main-draw victory of her career.

The 2021 US Open champion had not won a match in New York since her shock title run four years ago. But she ended that drought in style, producing a confident, composed display on the tournament’s new Sunday opening schedule.

“Relief” After Early Start

Raducanu admitted there was added pressure being placed on one of the first matches of the day.

“When I saw the Sunday schedule, I thought: first day, first match at 11am – you don’t want to be out of the tournament by 12:30pm. That was on my mind,” she told BBC Sport.

Instead, she wrapped up the win by 12:15, joking that the early finish gave her the afternoon off to celebrate and prepare for round two, where she faces Indonesian qualifier Janice Tjen.

New Coach, New Energy

Under the guidance of new coach Francisco Roig, Raducanu looks revitalised. The pair have been working closely since early August, with Roig even teaching her Spanish during their travels.

Raducanu praised his influence, adding:

“I probably don’t take in much of what he says during matches, but when I need it, he’s there. Off court, we’ve built a strong connection.”

She also credited chiropractor Jerome Poupel, whose eclectic career has included working with Formula 1 drivers, jockeys, and even horses, as part of her refreshed support team.

Rediscovering Her “Happy Place”

The British No.1 has endured injuries and inconsistent results since 2021, including first-round exits in 2022 and 2024. Missing the 2023 edition due to surgery further added to her frustration.

Now ranked just outside the world’s top 30, Raducanu has already won more WTA matches in 2025 than in any previous season. She says Flushing Meadows finally feels like her “happy place” again:

“It’s a relief. I broke the barrier of not winning here for four years. I feel I can move forward without that in my head.”

With confidence returning, Raducanu looks set to mount her strongest Grand Slam campaign since her fairytale title run.