?I Have Had a Tough Year? ? Emma Raducanu Takes Inspiration From Rafael Nadal?s Energy as She Dons Special Gesture at Wimbledon Championships 2022

Emma Raducanu returned to her home Slam for the first time after her sensational win at the US Open last year. She beat Alison Van Uytvanck of Belgium 6-4 6-4 in their first-round encounter at Centre Court.

Raducanu played through qualifying to become the youngest Grand Slam champion in 17 years. However, she comes into the tournament as the 10th seed after a sensational end to 2021.

Emma Raducanu dons Rafael Nadal’s polo

After her impressive victory on Monday, the 19-year-old drew the attention of the people in the press conference by wearing a polo with Nadal’s signature Bull logo. Raducanu explained the reason, saying, “I think Rafa just embodies fight, that sort of energy.”

“That’s what I’m bringing in. In terms of energy-wise, I think that I have had a tough year, like it’s no secret.I definitely am very happy to be here. All the lessons I’ve taken from the last year will only hold me in good stead for the future,” she concluded.

Nadal began his Wimbledon campaign on Tuesday facing Argentinian Francisco Cerundolo. The Spaniard has had a memorable 2022, winning both Grand Slams this season. Moreover, Nadal missed half of the 2021 season with injury. Seeded 2nd at Wimbledon, he will aim to keep his stunning run going.

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Is Rafael Nadal fully fit for Wimbledon?

Nadal is coming off a sensational 14th Roland Garros title victory last month. The Spaniard has been suffering from a foot issue, but has played with constant treatment since his return to the tour. Additionally, Nadal has been undergoing a treatment plan of radiofrequency ablation in order to play at the All-England Club.

The former World No.1 won has not played at Wimbledon since his semi-final loss against Roger Federer in 2019. His two Championship victories came back in 2008 and 2010.

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Nadal marked his return after undergoing foot surgery with a sensational victory in Melbourne winning the Australian Open. Nadal, now stands atop of the Grand Slam tally with 22, two ahead of archrivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.