In a recent revelation, Emma Raducanu, the British tennis prodigy who stunned the world by winning the 2021 US Open as a teenage qualifier, opened up about the immense pressure she faced following her groundbreaking victory. And now, fellow rising star Coco Gauff has come forward to express her understanding and support for Raducanu’s struggles.
Coco Gauff made waves at the tender age of 15. It was when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon she comprehended the challenges of being a young sensation in the world of professional tennis.
Raducanu and Gauff’s Psychological Toll of Breakthrough Victories
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Raducanu’s candid interview with The Times shed light on the psychological toll she experienced after her triumphant moment. The former world No 10 admitted that she had occasionally wished she had never won the US Open. Since her historic victory almost two years ago, Raducanu confessed to feeling burned by the demands of the tennis tour.
As a player who burst onto the scene at just 15 years old, Coco Gauff understands the importance of maintaining focus amidst external distractions. Sharing her wisdom on handling pressure, Gauff emphasizes the significance of muting the noise and concentrating on personal growth.
During a press interaction in Eastbourne, Gauff stated “I think it’s just your support system and just taking it week-by-week.” She also emphasized, “For me, the best part is just to mute the noise and focus on myself and don’t focus on what other people are saying.” Gauff’s ability to tune out external pressures has been crucial to her development as a player and an individual, as reported by Express.
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Raducanu’s Experience of Being a teenage superstar
Emma Raducanu recently made a poignant admission about her US Open victory as an 18-year-old qualifier. Reflecting on her rapid ascent, Raducanu confessed, “I had to mature very quickly. When I won, I was extremely naive. What I have realized in the past two years is that the tour and everything that comes with it is not a very nice, trusting, and safe space.” She highlighted the need for caution in an industry where people may seek to exploit her success, adding that she has learned to keep her inner circle small.
ALSO READ: VIDEO: Emma Raducanu Has a Hilarious Moment as She Curses on Camera During Her Interview
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As the tennis world eagerly awaits Raducanu’s return to the court. It is heartening to witness the unity and compassion displayed by her fellow players. With the backing of a peer who comprehends her journey intimately, Raducanu can take comfort in knowing that she has a resilient spirit and an unwavering support system that will help her overcome any obstacles she may encounter in the future.
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