Why Emma Raducanu needs to swallow her pride if she ever wants to reach the top again amid nightmarish run

Emma Raducanu’s early exit from the 2025 BNP Paribas Open has once again raised concerns about her form and long-term strategy. The British star, who once stunned the tennis world with her historic US Open victory in 2021, now finds herself in the middle of a prolonged slump.

Raducanu’s recent struggles, including her first-round loss at Indian Wells, are not isolated incidents. Inconsistent performances and early tournament exits have become the norm over the past year, prompting questions about what it will take for her to return to the elite level.

One key issue appears to be pride—and a reluctance to fully commit to a long-term coaching arrangement. Since parting ways with several coaches, Raducanu has yet to settle on a stable support team. While independence is admirable, top-level tennis demands consistent guidance, especially for young players navigating pressure, tactics, and physical demands.

Her reliance on wildcards into major tournaments may also be working against her. While these entries help her stay visible on the WTA circuit, they often place her directly into high-stakes matches without the rhythm and confidence that come from progressing through qualifying rounds.

If Raducanu hopes to recapture the form that once made her a global sensation, she may need to make difficult but necessary changes—starting with a willingness to accept experienced coaching and rebuild through lower-tier events if required. Swallowing her pride could be the first step toward a genuine comeback.