Emma Raducanu’s triumphant return to competitive tennis has continued to dazzle, as she teamed up with Katie Boulter to lead Great Britain past the defending champions Canada, advancing to the semi-finals of the Billie Jean King Cup. Both Raducanu and Boulter have been in impeccable form, not dropping a single set across two ties at the Palacio de Deportes in Malaga. With a favorable match against Slovakia looming on Tuesday, Great Britain’s chances of emerging as tournament champions look stronger than ever—something team captain Anne Keothavong hinted at with growing confidence.
Raducanu’s performances have been especially noteworthy, marking her impressive comeback after nearly two months away due to a foot injury. She opened with a dominant victory over Germany’s Jule Niemeier on Friday, and on Sunday she maintained that momentum, dispatching Canada’s Rebecca Marino in straight sets, 6-0, 7-5. Raducanu’s first-set display was ruthless, breezing past Marino in under 30 minutes. However, the match took a more competitive turn in the second set as Marino, ranked world No. 103, found her rhythm and posed a much sterner challenge. Raducanu had to dig deep, fending off seven break points across two critical games, ultimately clinching a decisive break at 5-5 before serving out for the match.
The 22-year-old’s remodeled serve was a standout feature of her game, and her resilience under pressure was clear. “I think it’s always difficult actually when you win a set so, in a way, comfortably, because you almost think in your head, ‘OK, something might go wrong here, there is no way I’m going to cruise through the entire match,’” Raducanu reflected afterward. She credited Marino’s power and determination, noting that the Canadian stepped up her level in the second set, demanding a higher caliber of play from Raducanu herself.
Raducanu’s impressive showing extends her record in the Billie Jean King Cup to five wins and just one loss, with a perfect four wins from four matches this year. Regardless of how the remainder of the tournament unfolds, Raducanu’s performances have given her a surge of belief heading into the off-season, signaling her intent to reclaim a spot among the game’s elite in 2025. “I know I’m a dangerous player,” she said confidently. “I know no one wants to pull my name in the draw. I take pride in that, and I’m looking forward to hopefully staying on court longer next year.”
She spoke about the unique challenge and thrill of representing her country. “I think this is a great way to come back, even though there is some pressure… You’re not just playing for yourself; you’re playing for everyone.” Raducanu also praised the supportive environment and the ability to use on-court coaching during the competition, which has been invaluable during her return from injury.
With Raducanu setting the stage, it was then Katie Boulter’s turn to step up and secure the tie. The British No. 1 faced Leylah Fernandez, the player Raducanu defeated to win the US Open title three years ago. Boulter’s performance mirrored her teammate’s determination, as she overcame a brief late-match wobble to win 6-2, 6-4. Fernandez, ranked No. 31 in the world, struggled with her serve throughout the match, recording nine double faults. Boulter capitalized on her opponent’s inconsistencies, breaking Fernandez’s serve three times in the first set and racing out to a commanding 5-1 lead in the second.
The closing moments tested Boulter’s nerve. She initially failed to serve out the match, with Fernandez saving a match point and forcing several errors from the Brit. However, Boulter eventually sealed victory on her fourth match point, providing Great Britain with an unassailable lead in the tie. “I’m really happy with my level today,” Boulter said afterward. “Emma makes it very easy to come out at 1-0, so full credit to her for starting us off so well.”
This marks the second time in three years that Great Britain has reached the semi-finals of the competition. However, this year’s run feels more substantial than their 2022 campaign, where they benefited from a wild card as hosts. Great Britain’s upcoming clash against Slovakia will not be taken lightly, particularly given Slovakia’s impressive win over the USA in the last 16. But there is a palpable sense of opportunity, with a first final appearance since 1981—and perhaps even a maiden title—within reach.
“It’s fantastic,” said Keothavong, lauding her team’s performances. “It really is a brilliant achievement for the team. But the job is far from over. I think it’s important to enjoy the moment and really recognize what fantastic performances we saw this evening.”
As Raducanu and Boulter continue to deliver in Malaga, the prospect of making history for British women’s tennis grows tantalizingly close. With form, confidence, and team spirit all aligning, Great Britain stands on the brink of a remarkable achievement in this prestigious competition.