Emma Raducanu's return from long-term injuries has been a remarkable story. After missing most of 2023 due to surgeries on both wrists and her left ankle, she has shown incredible patience and perspective. Now, as she climbs back up the rankings and prepares for 2025, let's take a closer look at her progress.

Witnessing Emma Raducanu's Resurgence in Tennis

Wimbledon Run & Rankings Rise – the highs

When Raducanu was gearing up for her comeback a year ago, she emphasized the importance of a "fresh start." Her rise from being ranked 303rd in the world to inside the top 60 is truly astonishing. In fact, only a few WTA players have achieved a more significant climb this year. Only Czech player Karolina Muchova, who reached the US Open semi-finals, has competed in fewer events and is ranked inside the top 60. Raducanu takes pride in her progress, stating, "Sometimes I need reminding: I'm top 60 and I've played less than 15 events, which is pretty unheard of. I have to pat myself on the back for that." The British grass season was a highlight, with runs to the Nottingham quarter-finals and Eastbourne semi-finals setting the stage for a heartening Wimbledon performance that ended in the last 16. This further fueled her determination.

Tearful Admissions & More Injuries – the lows

Raducanu's journey has not been without its challenges. A straight-set defeat in Madrid against Argentine qualifier Maria Lourdes Carle served as a reality check after her impressive performance against world number one Iga Swiatek on the Stuttgart clay. She later admitted to feeling "exhausted," which led to some criticism. Managing her workload has been crucial, as seen when she played only once between the All England Club and the US Open, resulting in a rusty first-round exit. However, she has shown resilience, as evidenced by her BJK Cup appearances and her ability to handle setbacks under intense scrutiny. British number three Sonay Kartal believes Raducanu deserves credit for the way she has dealt with these difficulties.

Improving Fitness & Serving Stronger – the future

After her BJK Cup experience, Raducanu immediately started her pre-season programme in London with the addition of renowned trainer Yutaka Nakamura. Nakamura, who has worked with Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka, will help make her body more robust. Raducanu emphasizes the need for a more tailored approach and someone dedicated to her. Her coach Nick Cavaday, a childhood mentor, will continue to play a crucial role. Particular attention is being paid to turning her serve into a "weapon." Lengthening her takeback and adjusting her swing has brought more rhythm, consistency, and power. Raducanu is excited about the potential, stating, "Yutuka adds another dimension to the way Nick and I work – it has become integrated and connected. We can already see things that we do in the gym transferring onto the tennis court. We're on a journey of exploration."