Emma Raducanu’s Struggles Continue with Third Straight First-Round Exit
Emma Raducanu set out to play more matches in 2025, but her efforts have been derailed by the worst run of form in her professional career. The former US Open champion suffered her third consecutive first-round defeat, falling to Ekaterina Alexandrova in the Qatar Open.
The Brit had previously defeated Alexandrova in the opening round of the Australian Open, but she couldn’t replicate that success, losing 6-3, 7-5 in Doha. This marks Raducanu’s fourth consecutive loss, following early exits in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, further denting her confidence.
Her struggles began with a crushing 6-1, 6-0 defeat against world No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the Australian Open third round. Despite her determination to play more tournaments, Raducanu’s vulnerabilities—particularly on her second serve—continue to hold her back. Against Alexandrova, she won just 33% of points on her second serve and faced eight break points, saving five but still struggling to hold serve consistently.
Coaching Uncertainty and Next Steps
Raducanu’s plans remain uncertain as she searches for a new coach. Following the departure of Nick Cavaday due to health reasons after the Australian Open, Jane O’Donoghue has stepped in temporarily to provide support. However, it appears to be a short-term solution, leaving Raducanu in need of a more stable coaching setup.
Given her recent form, she may consider stepping away from the tour briefly to reassess her approach and rebuild confidence before returning to competition.
Sky Sports Expert Backs Raducanu to Rebound
Despite her recent setbacks, Sky Sports Tennis commentator Jonathan Overend remains optimistic about Raducanu’s future. Speaking to Tennis365, Overend believes that, while inconsistency may continue to be a theme in her career, Raducanu still has the ability to challenge for major titles.
“I genuinely think this year is quite exciting for Raducanu,” Overend said. “I don’t see her playing with the consistency British tennis wants, but she’s one of those players who can blow hot and cold across tournaments.
“What we do know is that when she’s fit and in form, she has that Grand Slam-winning ability. I have no doubt she’ll show up at future Slams and get close to winning again.
“We can critique her serve and say it needs to improve, but when she won the 2021 US Open, she had to win three qualifying matches and seven main-draw matches—all without dropping a set. That level is still in her.
“I don’t necessarily think her game has regressed since then. It’s about finding that spark again. If everything clicks, I genuinely believe she can win another Grand Slam.”
Overend also praised Raducanu’s attitude in the face of adversity.
“I love how she handles press conferences—smiling, taking everything in stride. A lot of players get so stressed, but she seems to have a level of comfort within herself. If I were in her shoes, I’d be frustrated because her game is solid.
“I can’t wait for the day it all comes together for her because when it does, she’ll turn around and say: ‘See? I told you so.’ She’s still young, and given the lack of young players dominating the WTA Tour, she has plenty of time to put herself back in contention for big titles.”
Can Raducanu Bounce Back?
While her recent struggles suggest an uphill battle, Raducanu’s talent remains undeniable. If she can address key weaknesses, solidify her coaching setup, and regain her confidence, there’s every chance she could turn things around and once again challenge on the biggest stages.
For now, her next move remains uncertain, but all eyes will be on how she navigates this challenging period in her career.
