World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka made a bold prediction about Emma Raducanu’s future, declaring the British No. 1 “will definitely be back in the top 10” after defeating her 7-6(8-6), 6-4 in a gripping third-round match at Wimbledon 2025 on July 4 on Centre Court. Speaking in her post-match press conference, Sabalenka praised Raducanu’s performance, saying, “She played incredible tennis today. If she keeps that level, with her team, she’ll be back in the top 10 and contending for Slams,” per *BBC Sport* and *The Express*. The 74-minute match, marked by Raducanu’s dramatic fall and injury scare, showcased her resilience, pushing Sabalenka to the brink despite ongoing back issues, per *The Guardian*.
Raducanu, ranked No. 40, led 4-1 in the second set and had points for 5-1 and 5-2, but Sabalenka’s power—10 winners per set and a 78% first-serve win rate—proved decisive, per *WTA Tennis*. A crucial break at 4-4 sealed Raducanu’s exit, her best Wimbledon run since 2021, boosting her ranking to a projected No. 36, per *Tennis365.com*. Sabalenka highlighted Raducanu’s “unbelievable movement and aggression,” noting the Centre Court crowd’s energy made it “tough but fun,” per *The Standard*. Fans on X, like @Wimbledon, echoed her praise, tweeting, “Sabalenka sees a bright future for Raducanu after this battle” (@Wimbledon, July 4, 2025).
The prediction aligns with Raducanu’s recent form, including wins over Marketa Vondrousova and Elise Mertens, and her work with coach Mark Petchey, whom she credits for her improved serve, per *The Telegraph*. However, her back injury, which left her “helpless” after a slip, raises concerns, per *The Express*. Sabalenka, advancing to face Madison Keys in the fourth round, remains a favorite, but her comments reflect respect for Raducanu’s potential to reclaim elite status, especially after a challenging 2025 marked by injuries and off-court issues, per *GB News*.
