Emma Raducanu was overjoyed after winning her first match following a comeback at the 2024 ASB Classic.
Raducanu made her comeback on Tuesday, January 2, following three surgeries that left her sidelined for eight months. In the first match of the WTA 250, the British player, who was granted a wild card entry, took on Romanian qualifier Elena-Gabriela Ruse.
Raducanu got off to a great start, breaking Ruse in the eighth game to seal the first set 6-3. The Romanian turned his dues forward in the second set, winning 6-4 following five service breaks between the two players.
Raducanu put on an incredible show in the decisive set, breaking her opponent twice to take a 5-2 lead. But in the games that followed, Ruse gave the 2021 US Open champion a serious challenge. Despite having a match-point opportunity in the ninth game of the set, the British player lost both break advantages and was unable to seal the victory.
Just as the score was tied at five, Raducanu broke Ruse’s serve once more. After three attempts to serve for the match, the British player finally prevailed, with the final score being 6-3, 4-6, 7-5.
Raducanu was happy with her first victory since March 2023. She covered her face with her hands in relief, displaying her feelings on the court.
She expressed her feelings after the win and said: “It’s difficult after having such a long hiatus. I’m grateful to be healthy and able to move my body. Not bedridden or in a wheelchair. It’s amazing to be out here and playing. I’m just really happy to be back on the tour. I can’t wait to start this season and carry on, hopefully injury-free and healthy.”
Emma Raducanu after winning first match back in 9 months:
“It’s difficult after having such a long hiatus. I’m grateful to be healthy & able to move my body.. Not bedridden or in a wheel chair. It’s amazing to be out here & playing. I’m just really happy to be back on the tour.… pic.twitter.com/yiT3vs3B7d
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 2, 2024
Raducanu in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2024
LLWWLWWWLW Ranked world no.301, Raducanu has managed to achieve a 1-0 record in 2024. The Brit is now playing in Auckland where she ousted the world no.134 Elena Gabriela Ruse 6-3 4-6 7-5.
Emma Raducanu will come up against the world no.25 Elina Svitolina in the 2nd round. In the past, they have never competed against each other so far in top competitions.
