Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has teamed up with a traveling chiropractor, Dr. Jerome Poupel, whose expertise extends to treating horses and Formula 1 drivers, to overcome physical hurdles at the 2025 US Open, starting August 24. After securing her first Flushing Meadows win since 2021, a swift 6-2, 6-2 victory over Ena Shibahara in 62 minutes, Raducanu credited Poupel for helping manage her persistent back issues, boosting her confidence for a deep tournament run.
Poupel’s Unique Expertise
Raducanu revealed that Poupel, who previously worked with F1 driver David Coulthard and jockey Tony McCoy, has been instrumental in addressing her back problems over the past year. “He’s been helping me for the last year. I’ve had back problems, so he’s really helped with that,” she said. Poupel’s diverse clientele intrigued Raducanu, who noted, “He said my character is similar to a horse—stubborn, digging my heels in.” His presence in her player box during the Shibahara match, alongside new coach Francisco Roig, underscored his role, with Raducanu appreciating his “calm but eccentric” personality.
Overcoming US Open Hurdles
Raducanu’s first-round win marked a significant milestone, as she hadn’t advanced at the US Open since her 2021 triumph due to injuries and early exits in 2022 and 2024. Facing world No. 130 Shibahara, she dominated with 22 winners and only six unforced errors, showcasing improved physicality. However, conflicting reports mention chiropractor Will Herbert, not Poupel, suggesting possible media confusion. Regardless, Raducanu’s back health, critical after 2023 surgeries, has benefited from chiropractic care, enabling her to train more consistently. Her draw now includes Veronika Kudermetova, with a potential Aryna Sabalenka quarterfinal looming.
Broader Context
Raducanu’s innovative approach mirrors the resilience of peers like Coco Gauff, adapting with new coaches, or Luke Littler, navigating darts pressures. Fans on X praised her unique support team, with one post stating, “Emma’s horse chiropractor is the MVP! She’s back!” (@TennisFanUK, August 24, 2025). Poupel’s experience with high-performance athletes, including F1 drivers’ reaction-time demands, aligns with Raducanu’s goal to sharpen her court reflexes. As she aims to recreate her 2021 magic, her collaboration with Poupel highlights her determination to overcome physical and mental hurdles at the 2025 US Open.
