Emma Raducanu was recently spotted making a rather unexpected journey on public transport in London, stepping onto a bus last weekend. The 21-year-old tennis sensation, who has garnered fame since her stunning US Open victory in 2021, was photographed waiting at a bus stop before catching the 345 route to South Kensington. This casual moment comes just weeks after reports surfaced that Porsche had reclaimed her £125,000 supercar, a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet, which she had received as part of her ambassadorial partnership with the luxury automobile brand.
Dressed for comfort, Raducanu sported a stylish gilet over a knit jumper, paired with leggings and oversized sunglasses as she patiently awaited her bus. This appearance on public transport took many by surprise, particularly in light of her celebrity status and the glamorous lifestyle often associated with professional athletes. After her bus ride was highlighted in the media, Raducanu took to her Instagram story to share a screenshot of an article covering the incident, accompanied by several laughing emojis, demonstrating her ability to maintain a light-hearted perspective on the situation.
The recent news regarding her supercar adds another layer of intrigue to Raducanu’s public persona. The Porsche, which she had long admired since childhood, had been a significant part of her life as a young athlete. In past interviews, she recounted how she used to marvel at her coach’s Porsche during morning practice sessions, expressing her dream of one day owning a similar vehicle. However, reports indicate that Porsche acted swiftly in reclaiming the car after determining they were not receiving an adequate return on their investment.
An insider close to Raducanu’s team confirmed the situation, stating plainly, “Emma no longer has a Porsche. They took it back. It used to have pride of place at her home.” This sentiment was echoed by a spokesperson for Porsche, who clarified that while they occasionally loan cars to Raducanu, these arrangements are not permanent or guaranteed. “While we do on occasion loan Emma a car, this is very much on an ad hoc basis,” they stated, attempting to clarify the nature of their relationship.
Despite the controversy surrounding her previous vehicle, it seems Raducanu is not without wheels. Recent photographs show her behind the wheel of a new £100,000 Porsche Cayenne, marking a shift from her earlier Dacia Sandero, which served her well for quite some time. The Cayenne is known for its superior comfort and performance, qualities that could prove beneficial as she navigates her recovery from a foot injury.
Raducanu had hoped to participate in the end-of-season hardcourt tournaments in Asia, but she faced setbacks due to her injury, ultimately withdrawing from prestigious WTA 1000 events in both Beijing and Wuhan. In a heartfelt message shared with her fans, she expressed her disappointment: “I’m sorry to say that I will not be able to play in Hong Kong next week. While my foot is making good progress, I need a little more time before I am match fit. I hope to be able to come back and play this tournament in the future!” This announcement left many fans wondering if she would be able to compete in the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup next month.
As Raducanu focuses on her recovery, the public’s interest in her life continues to grow. From her spontaneous bus ride to her changing relationship with luxury vehicles, she remains a topic of conversation both on and off the court. The young star has navigated the pressures of fame with grace, and her ability to find humor in challenging situations, like using public transportation, showcases her relatable side, endearing her to fans around the world.
With her career still in its early stages, Raducanu’s journey is closely watched, and her resilience in the face of adversity, particularly concerning her injuries, will be crucial as she seeks to reclaim her place among the top players in tennis. Whether she’s riding the bus or cruising in her latest Porsche, Emma Raducanu continues to captivate the public’s imagination, embodying both the struggles and triumphs of a young athlete in the spotlight. As she navigates this challenging period, supporters remain hopeful for her swift return to the court and to see her once again achieving the extraordinary feats that first captured the world’s attention.