Raducanu class above
SCHOOL-LEAVER Emma Raducanu has the world at her feet after winning the US Open women’s singles at the age of 18.
Raducanu, who once described herself as the “quiet one who didn’t really raise her hand” in the classroom, raised the roof of the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York to win in straight sets, 6-4 6-3, against 19-year-old Leylah Fernandez.
Just a few months ago, Raducanu was finishing her A-levels in England, securing an A in economics and an A-plus in maths.
She threw herself to the ground in relief and covered her eyes following the stunning victory in one hour, 51 minutes at Flushing Meadows in New York.
She became the first British woman to win a grand slam title since Virginia Wade in the Queen’s silver jubilee year of 1977.
Afterwards, she received a message from the Queen who described a “remarkable achievement at such a young age” and hailed a “testament to your hard work and dedication”.
“I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent … will inspire the next generation of tennis players,” the Queen said.
Just minutes before the win, Raducanu had slipped on the court and cut her leg, requiring a bandage.
The daughter of a Chinese mother and Romanian father, who moved to the UK from Canada when she was just two, she said after the win: “I am still just so shocked. I can’t believe I came through that last set.
“It honestly means absolutely everything to me to hold this trophy. Mum, Dad, thank you to everyone. This one’s for you guys.”
Raducanu’s glory came just months after she had to withdraw from the fourth round of Wimbledon in July due to breathing difficulties.
Later, she admitted the experience had “caught up” with her.