Emma Raducanu names the former WTA player she really wishes she could have played before she retired
Emma Raducanu Ends Losing Streak with Victory Over Maria Sakkari in Dubai
Emma Raducanu has returned to the win column in impressive fashion, defeating world No. 9 Maria Sakkari at the WTA 1000 event in Dubai. This victory snapped a four-match losing streak, which dated back to her heavy defeat against Iga Swiatek at the Australian Open.
Raducanu’s struggles had continued into February, with her most recent setback coming against Ekaterina Alexandrova. However, her latest triumph signals a much-needed resurgence as she continues her comeback from injuries and coaching changes.
The Brit is currently working with fitness trainer Yutaka Nakamura and temporary coach Jane O’Donoghue after parting ways with Nick Cavaday last month. Despite multiple top coaches expressing interest in mentoring Raducanu, she has yet to announce a permanent coaching appointment.
Raducanu on Her Dream Match: Ash Barty
While in Dubai, Raducanu took part in a Q&A session with young ball kids, where she was asked which player from history she would have loved to face.
Instead of choosing a player from a past generation, Raducanu named Ash Barty, the three-time Grand Slam champion who shocked the world by retiring at just 25 years old.
“I would love to have played against Ash Barty, to be honest,” said Raducanu.
“The way she played was so fluid, so smooth, and yeah, opened the court so well.
I was always really impressed with how she played, and I’d be curious to have faced her.”
Despite only being 28 years old, Barty has ruled out a comeback and is currently expecting her second child.
When Raducanu Nearly Faced Barty
Although Raducanu and Barty never shared a court, they almost clashed during Raducanu’s historic 2021 US Open triumph.
As Raducanu stormed through the draw, many anticipated a fourth-round showdown with Barty, the tournament’s top seed. However, Barty was upset by Shelby Rogers in the third round, after blowing a 5-2 lead in the final set.
At the time, Raducanu spoke about the possibility of facing the world No. 1, acknowledging Barty’s variety and shot-making skills:
“Ash being number one in the world, you have to have many strengths.
She brings something different—she doesn’t play your typical fast, flat game.
She has the ability to mix things up with a slice backhand, a great forehand, and serve.”
However, she remained cautious, recognizing Rogers’ upset potential—a prediction that ultimately proved correct.
Raducanu went on to dominate Rogers in straight sets before defeating Sakkari in the semifinals and Leylah Fernandez in the final, making history as the first qualifier ever to win a Grand Slam.
Emma Raducanu’s US Open 2021 Run
| Round | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First Qualifying Round | Bibiane Schoofs | 6-1, 6-2 |
| Second Qualifying Round | Mariam Bolkvadze | 6-3, 7-5 |
| Third Qualifying Round | Mayar Sherif | 6-1, 6-4 |
| First Round | Stefanie Voegele (LL) | 6-2, 6-3 |
| Second Round | Shuai Zhang | 6-2, 6-4 |
| Third Round | Sara Sorribes Tormo | 6-0, 6-1 |
| Fourth Round | Shelby Rogers | 6-2, 6-1 |
| Quarter-final | Belinda Bencic (11) | 6-3, 6-4 |
| Semi-final | Maria Sakkari (17) | 6-1, 6-4 |
| Final | Leylah Fernandez | 6-4, 6-3 |
What’s Next for Raducanu?
Raducanu’s win over Sakkari in Dubai could mark a turning point as she looks to regain momentum on tour. With uncertainty surrounding her coaching situation, her resurgence and ability to string together victories will be key in rebuilding confidence.
As she continues to work on her fitness and form, fans will be eager to see whether Raducanu can recapture the magic of 2021—and perhaps, one day, take on an opponent with Barty-like craft and precision.
