Emma Raducanu stormed the court, slaying her first Top 10 opponent with the grace of a seasoned champion. The 2021 US Open winner defeated World No. 5 Jessica Pegula in the second round of the Eastbourne International. However, after the match, the Brit became a little emotional, emphasizing how much the victory meant to her.

Raducanu is no stranger to difficult circumstances; in her seven prior meetings with players ranked in the top ten, she had not won a single set. But everything changed in her most recent encounter with Pegula. She proved to be unshakeable in her ability and drive, pushing Pegula to the brink and winning a hard-fought battle.

During the on-court interview after the match, the former US Open champion got a bit emotional, “It’s incredibly difficult when you’re playing someone who’s so in-form like Jessica. She came off the back of a great run in Berlin, and no doubt she’s feeling confident on the grass, but I’m really pleased with how I managed to navigate some really tough situations, and to be honest, I didn’t think I’d be able to get myself out of it.” 

However, at the same time, she discussed the importance of the victory. Following that, she stated, “I would say this match is one of the more meaningful ones to me. … To come through, it’s been really nice.” The 21-year-old tennis player dropped her racquet in shock as the final point went in her favor, a broad smile lighting up her face.

After defeating a player ranked in the top ten, she became so emotional that she pulled her hat down over her eyes. Raducanu, who is normally calm, let herself have a moment of pure ecstasy and celebration, and the stadium let out applause. Raducanu had a difficult setback the previous year when she had to undergo surgery on her ankle and wrist, keeping her out of the grass-court season.

Raducanu was forced to withdraw from competition due to her injuries, concentrating instead on her healing and rehabilitation. However, a few days ago, the former British number one shared a simple message to critics after her win.

Emma Raducanu’s strong message after the Eastbourne win 

Following her triumph over Sloane Stephens at Eastbourne, the 21-year-old tennis prodigy left a short note for BBC TV that said, “My Own Pace.” This statement was made just before her thrilling victory over Jessica Pegula at the Rothesay International and was likely aimed at tennis pundits who have been questioning if she’s a one-hit wonder.

But Raducanu is proving that her best days are yet to come rather than being behind her. Prior to her Eastbourne debut, the 2021 US Open champion has already discussed rekindling her love for the game of tennis.

Her recent achievements, which include beating World No. 5 Pegula and finishing in the semifinals in Nottingham, are helping her climb back up the rankings and back into the top 150. Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Raducanu’s recent win? Do let us know in the comment section below.