Emma Raducanu Reflects on Resurgence After Dubai Victory
Emma Raducanu has expressed delight over her performance at the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships, where she snapped a four-match losing streak by defeating Maria Sakkari in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2.
The former US Open champion had suffered early exits in Australia, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar, but her wildcard entry into Dubai has given her a much-needed breakthrough. Speaking to The National, Raducanu acknowledged her tough losses earlier in the season but emphasized the high level of competition she has faced.
“I haven’t lost to bad players. Ekaterina [Alexandrova] went on and made semis [in Doha] and Marketa [Vondrousova, whom she lost to in Abu Dhabi] is a class opponent as well.”
Despite the setbacks, she remains optimistic, focusing on consistency and mental resilience:
“I have to put things in perspective and just try to take care of my day, stay consistent, and not let it run away from me.”
Raducanu’s Coaching Struggles Continue
Since her breakthrough win at the 2021 US Open, Raducanu has made frequent coaching changes, going through six different coaches in just three years.
Her most recent split with Nick Cavaday came due to his health concerns, leaving Raducanu with just her fitness trainer, Yutaka Nakamura, heading into the 2025 season. Nakamura has been a key figure in her physical preparation, but the lack of a permanent coach has raised concerns about her long-term development.
Rennae Stubbs Interested in Coaching Raducanu
Former doubles World No. 1 and Serena Williams’ ex-coach, Rennae Stubbs, has publicly expressed interest in coaching Raducanu.
Speaking on The Rennae Stubbs Podcast, she detailed how she would approach working with the British star:
“I’ll never say no to an opportunity of working with a Grand Slam champion. What would I work on?
The first thing I would do is sit her down and ask her what she wants.
And I think that’s the key—you have to know what your player wants.”
Stubbs also emphasized the importance of mentality, urging Raducanu to set realistic goals and develop a long-term vision for her career.
With several top coaches showing interest, it remains to be seen who Raducanu will choose to guide her as she looks to rebuild her form and return to the top of women’s tennis.
