Emma Raducanu is back at the US Open and, for the first time in years, she says New York feels like her “happy place” again.
The 22-year-old shocked the world in 2021 when she became the first qualifier in history to win a Grand Slam title, lifting the US Open trophy as a teenager. But since that dream run, her return trips to Flushing Meadows have been tough. Injuries, pressure, and early exits meant she couldn’t recapture the magic until now.
This Sunday, Raducanu begins her campaign against Japanese qualifier Ena Shibahara at 16:00 BST. She arrives as world number 35, looking more relaxed, confident, and ready than in previous years.
“I really struggled when I came back in 2022. I didn’t enjoy being here,” she admitted. “Now, for the first time, I can come back and enjoy the memories. I can be proud of what I did and see it as a happy place. I feel in a much better place now.”
Last year, Raducanu returned from injury but fell in the first round to Sofia Kenin, leaving the court in tears. This time, however, she’s coming in with momentum and optimism. Her form this summer has been her best since 2021, and she’s edging closer to rejoining the world’s top 30.
“I feel relaxed, I feel happy, and I feel like I’m enjoying the process of getting better,” she said. “In a way, it feels the same as 2021.”
Other British Hopes in New York
Raducanu may be the first Brit in action, but she’s not alone at this year’s US Open. Britain has eight players in the singles draws.
- Jack Draper – Britain’s top-ranked man and seeded fifth, Draper reached the semi-finals last year. He hasn’t played since Wimbledon due to an arm injury but insists he’s ready. He faces Argentine qualifier Federico Agustin Gomez in his opener.
- Cameron Norrie – The 29-year-old world number 40 takes on American Sebastian Korda. After some early exits in Canada, Norrie returned to his old college base in Texas to recharge and is aiming for a third straight Grand Slam second-week appearance.
- Katie Boulter, Sonay Kartal, Francesca Jones, Jacob Fearnley, and Billy Harris – All begin their campaigns on Tuesday, adding to a strong British presence at the tournament.
A Fresh Start for Raducanu
Four years on from her historic victory, Raducanu is no longer weighed down by expectation. Instead, she’s rediscovering the joy in her game.
With a smile back on her face and confidence in her shots, fans will be hoping that New York once again proves to be a special place for Britain’s brightest tennis star.
