Emma Raducanu has integrated a pre-match soccer warm-up into her routine at the US Open in hopes of replicating her previous success at Flushing Meadows. The 22-year-old, who achieved an unexpected victory at a Grand Slam in 2021, has been in excellent form at this year’s tournament. She is set to compete against Elena Rybakina for a spot in the fourth round on Friday, under the guidance of her new coach, Francisco Roig, a former mentor to Rafael Nadal.
Roig, Raducanu’s ninth coach since 2021, introduced the idea of playing football before matches, which Raducanu found to be beneficial for her mindset. The British player expressed her satisfaction with the positive atmosphere Roig brings to the team, emphasizing his energetic and humorous approach that uplifts her spirits on and off the court.
Having spent much of his career alongside Nadal, Roig is known for his discretion in maintaining the privacy of his working relationships. Raducanu appreciates this aspect, as she values Roig’s commitment to confidentiality, ensuring trust between them. Reflecting on her interactions with Roig, Raducanu mentioned seeking advice on handling nerves and learning from top players’ experiences at grand slams.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming clash between European and American golfers at the Ryder Cup, the legacy of iconic figures like Tom Watson who once said, “The Ryder Cup creates idols. It creates legends. It creates memories that last,” is celebrated in a special edition. To delve deeper into these legendary tales, a special edition can be purchased for £3.50.
In conclusion, the journey of Emma Raducanu at the US Open, guided by her new coach and inspired by the legends in sports, continues to capture the essence of perseverance and determination on the competitive stage.