Emma Raducanu began her US Open campaign with urgency and precision, eager to make a statement in her first-round match against Ena Shibahara. The British star, who had not won a match at Flushing Meadows since her 2021 title run, looked sharp from the outset. But just as she was preparing to serve early in the match, an unexpected incident brought play to a halt.
Cameraman’s Fall Halts Momentum
A cameraman stationed courtside lost his footing and fell over an advertising board, landing on the court and triggering a brief delay. Officials and fellow crew members rushed to assist him, while Raducanu waited calmly for the situation to be resolved. The tumble, though minor in consequence, disrupted the rhythm of the match and drew attention from both players and spectators.
Composure and Control Restored
Once the court was cleared and the cameraman returned to position, Raducanu quickly regained her focus. She resumed play with confidence, dominating the remainder of the match. Her clean hitting and consistent movement overwhelmed Shibahara, who struggled to find answers against Raducanu’s aggressive style.
A Statement Win in New York
Raducanu closed out the match 6-1, 6-2 in just over an hour, marking her first victory at the US Open since her historic run four years ago. The brief interruption did little to derail her performance, and she left the court with renewed belief and momentum heading into the next round.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
With her new coach Francisco Roig by her side, Raducanu appears more composed and tactically refined. The win over Shibahara not only ended her drought in New York but also signaled a potential resurgence. As she prepares for tougher challenges ahead, the incident with the cameraman will likely be remembered as a quirky footnote in an otherwise commanding performance.
Raducanu at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently the world no.36, the Brit owns a 25-17 win-loss record in 2025. Emma is playing at the U.S. Open where she conquered the world no.128 Ena Shibahara 6-1 6-2.
Emma Raducanu will square off with the world no.149 Janice Tjen in the 2nd round. They have never competed against each other up to now in top tournaments.