Emma Raducanu, a former US Open champion, recently faced a disappointing defeat in the first round of the Qatar Open against Anhelina Kalinina. As she reflects on her performance, the 21-year-old tennis player acknowledges the need for changes in her tournament scheduling. Raducanu’s journey has been marked by a dip in form following her triumphant 2021 victory at Flushing Meadows, as well as a challenging period of recovery from wrist and ankle surgeries.
Returning to the tour after an eight-month break filled with injury setbacks, Raducanu faced considerable challenges in finding her rhythm. Her defeats in Auckland, the Australian Open, and Abu Dhabi, followed by the loss to Kalinina in Doha, have led her to consider reevaluating her approach to tournament scheduling. The relentless pace of the tour has left Raducanu feeling overwhelmed and struggling to adapt to the demanding schedule.
Ranking 262nd, Raducanu recognizes the importance of building momentum and gaining experience through regular match play. In order to achieve this, she emphasizes the necessity of carefully planning her tournament schedule. Acknowledging the difficulties of adjusting to tournament after tournament, Raducanu plans to make changes to avoid consecutive events that leave little time for rest and proper preparation. By strategically selecting events and ensuring enough time for training and recovery, Raducanu aims to improve her overall performance.
Following her departure from the Qatar Open, Raducanu intends to take some time off and return home to regroup after a hectic period on tour. Reports suggest she may be granted a wild card entry to play in Dubai next week, but it is more likely that she will opt for a well-deserved break before returning to compete in Indian Wells and Miami in the coming months. This break will allow Raducanu to recharge, reflect, and work on the necessary adjustments to enhance her game.
In her recent match, Raducanu struggled to find her rhythm, committing 48 unforced errors. She believes that playing during the day may have contributed to her lackluster performance. The challenging conditions, including the light, shadows, and various external factors, made it difficult for her to see the ball clearly towards the end of the match. This experience has taught her the importance of training in outdoor conditions to better adapt to different playing environments.
Despite the setbacks, Raducanu remains resilient and determined. She acknowledges the need for improvement and is committed to putting in the necessary work. With a strategic approach to tournament scheduling, she aims to gain valuable experience and build a strong foundation for future success. Raducanu’s journey serves as a reminder that setbacks provide valuable lessons and opportunities for growth in the world of competitive sports.
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