In the electrifying atmosphere of New York’s Flushing Meadows, Emma Raducanu once again showcased why she’s a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court. The British sensation, who burst onto the global stage with her fairy-tale victory at the US Open four years ago, delivered a masterclass in dominance during her second-round clash. Facing off against the inspired Indonesian qualifier Janice Tjen on the iconic Louis Armstrong Stadium, Raducanu dismantled her opponent with a resounding 6-2, 6-1 victory that lasted a mere hour. This performance not only propelled her into the third round but also signaled a return to the form that captivated the world in her breakthrough year.
Raducanu’s journey at this tournament holds special significance. As the only qualifier in history to claim a Grand Slam title, her 2021 triumph here remains a benchmark of audacious achievement. It’s a story that resonates deeply with players like Tjen, who has openly drawn inspiration from Raducanu’s improbable run. The 23-year-old Indonesian, fresh off a remarkable college career in California, has been carving her own path on the professional circuit. Since graduating last year, she’s racked up an impressive string of victories on the lower tours, honing a game modeled after former world number one Ash Barty. Tjen’s heavy topspin forehand, a weapon that echoes Barty’s crafty style, proved devastating in her first-round upset over the 24th-seeded Veronika Kudermetova. Coming into this match, Tjen was riding high on confidence, presenting what could have been a tricky challenge for anyone not at their peak.
Yet, from the very first point, Raducanu asserted her authority. She opened the match with a blistering ace, setting a tone of unyielding precision and power. Her serve was nothing short of spectacular—firing off eight aces in total, including five in the opening set alone. She dropped just seven points on her own delivery during that first set, a statistic that underscores her command of the court. Raducanu’s strategy was sharp and unrelenting: she zeroed in on Tjen’s backhand, exploiting it with pinpoint groundstrokes that kept the Indonesian on the defensive. The British number one, now 22, moved with the grace and agility that have become her trademarks, covering the court effortlessly and dictating rallies with tactical brilliance.
The first set unfolded like a well-scripted thriller. Raducanu broke Tjen’s serve twice, converting opportunities with clinical efficiency. Tjen, despite her recent successes and the firepower in her forehand, struggled to find answers against an opponent operating at such a high level. The Indonesian’s attempts to rally were met with Raducanu’s relentless pressure, and before long, the set was sealed 6-2. The momentum carried seamlessly into the second set, where Raducanu elevated her game even further. She raced out to a commanding lead, stringing together seven consecutive games at one point. Tjen managed to snag a solitary game to avoid a bagel set, but it was a brief respite in what was otherwise a one-sided affair. Raducanu closed out the match confidently on her serve, pumping her fist as the crowd erupted in applause.
Reflecting on her performance post-match, Raducanu expressed satisfaction while keeping her focus grounded. “I’m very pleased with how I played,” she said. “Super dangerous opponent, she was playing extremely well. I’m just looking forward to building day by day, doing my best.” Her words capture the maturity she’s developed since her meteoric rise. This win was even swifter than her first-round demolition of fellow qualifier Ena Shibahara, which had already marked her quickest Grand Slam victory to date. It’s a testament to Raducanu’s evolving game—bolstered by a potent serve, accurate baseline play, and an improved mental resilience that has helped her navigate the highs and lows of professional tennis.
Looking ahead, the third round promises intrigue. Raducanu could face a stern test against former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, a matchup that would pit her aggressive style against one of the tour’s big hitters. But based on her recent displays, Raducanu appears equipped to handle whatever comes her way. Her strong serve, combined with those precision groundstrokes and exceptional court coverage, makes her a potential spoiler for top seeds in the draw. This US Open run is more than just a progression through rounds; it’s a chapter in Raducanu’s ongoing story of redemption and growth. After dealing with injuries and form fluctuations in the years following her historic win, she’s rediscovering the joy and confidence that propelled her to stardom.
The energy at the US Open is palpable, with fans flocking to see stars like Raducanu weave their magic under the bright lights. Her performance against Tjen wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. As she continues to build momentum, the tennis world watches with bated breath, wondering if this could be the start of another unforgettable campaign. With her blend of talent, determination, and tactical savvy, Raducanu is reminding everyone why she belongs among the elite, one dominant display at a time.
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