World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka offered a pointed critique of Emma Raducanu’s performance after defeating her 7-6(8-6), 6-4 in the third round of Wimbledon 2025 on July 4, highlighting a “rookie mistake” that cost the British No. 1 the match. In her post-match press conference, Sabalenka noted that Raducanu’s failure to maintain aggressive play during critical moments was decisive, saying, “She played incredible, but at times she went for safe shots when she had me on the ropes. That’s a rookie mistake—you can’t let up against someone like me,” per *The Express* and *Metro Sport*. Sabalenka’s comments came after a 74-minute battle on Centre Court, where Raducanu pushed her to the limit, saving seven set points in the first set and leading 4-1 in the second, per *BBC Sport*.
Raducanu, ranked No. 40, showcased her potential with 24 winners and a 51% steal score, but her slip on the grass—leaving her “helpless” with a thigh issue—and subsequent cautious play allowed Sabalenka to capitalize, per *The Guardian*. Sabalenka’s power, with 10 winners per set and a 78% first-serve win rate, proved too much, particularly when she broke back at 4-4 in the second set, per *WTA Tennis*. Despite the critique, Sabalenka praised Raducanu’s “unbelievable movement” and predicted a top-10 return, saying, “If she keeps this level, she’ll be contending for Slams,” per *The Standard*.
Raducanu admitted to being “very self-critical” post-match, fighting back tears over missed opportunities, particularly a set point in the tiebreak and chances for a 5-1 lead, per *Express.co.uk*. She also criticized Wimbledon’s new electronic line-calling system, calling some decisions “dodgy,” which may have disrupted her focus, per *Metro Sport*. Fans on X, like @TennisVibes, noted Sabalenka’s “harsh but fair” assessment, while @Wimbledon highlighted Raducanu’s resilience despite her back injury flare-up, per *GB News*. As Sabalenka advances to face Madison Keys, Raducanu’s loss underscores the fine margins against elite players, but her run to the third round signals progress toward her 2021 US Open form.
