In the picturesque seaside setting of Devonshire Park, the 2025 Lexus Eastbourne Open became the stage for an emotional chapter in Emma Raducanu’s tennis journey. The 22-year-old British number one, a former US Open champion, fought back tears after a gritty three-set victory over American Ann Li, winning 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-1 to advance to the second round. The match, played under challenging, blustery conditions, was more than a test of skill—it was a testament to Raducanu’s resilience as she battled personal distress after receiving “some really bad news” before stepping onto the court. “I’d prefer to not go into it, if that’s OK,” she told reporters, her voice wavering, “but it was difficult and very emotional at the end, probably just a release of different emotions.”
Raducanu’s journey to this moment has been one of highs and lows. Since her stunning 2021 US Open triumph at 18, she has grappled with fame, injuries, and the weight of expectations. A lingering back issue, which forced her to withdraw from the Berlin Open and required treatment during her recent quarter-final loss to Qinwen Zheng at Queen’s Club, added to her challenges. Yet, at Eastbourne, Raducanu showed the grit that has defined her resurgence in 2025. Trailing 3-0 in the first set and struggling with the wind, she clawed her way back, only to lose the tiebreak. “I wasn’t really present,” she admitted, reflecting on her mental state early in the match. But with the crowd’s unwavering support, she found her rhythm, breaking Li’s serve three times in the second set and dominating the decider 6-1 with a decisive backhand winner. “I feel incredible,” she said in her on-court interview, wiping away tears. “I just want to thank the crowd for getting me through some really sticky moments.”
The emotional weight of the match was compounded by the presence of her friend and fellow player Fran Jones in her corner, alongside coach Mark Petchey. Jones, ranked world number 125, offered vocal support, urging “Radders” to “get after it.” Raducanu later praised her, saying, “She’s someone who is so intelligent about tennis and about life as well. I give her a lot of credit for that.” Their bond, forged through shared experiences on the tour, provided a lifeline during the match, with Jones’ encouragement helping Raducanu navigate the toughest moments. “It’s nice to just see her on the side of the court, giving me a lot of support,” Raducanu added, noting their discussions on tactics and technique.
As the seventh seed, Raducanu faces a tough road ahead in Eastbourne, with Australian teenager Maya Joint awaiting in the second round—a rematch of their three-set clash at the 2025 Italian Open, which Raducanu won. A potential quarter-final against defending champion Daria Kasatkina looms, but Raducanu’s focus remains on Wimbledon, starting June 30. Her 2024 Eastbourne quarter-final run, which included a victory over then-world number five Jessica Pegula, and her fourth-round appearance at Wimbledon signal her grass-court prowess. Despite dropping 108 ranking points from last year’s quarter-final, Raducanu’s performance against Li, ranked world number 64, showcased her ability to win even when not at her best—a hallmark of a true champion.
The Eastbourne crowd, roaring with every point, played a pivotal role. “It really meant a lot to me, and I was so proud of how I fought back after losing the first set,” Raducanu said, her voice thick with emotion. As she prepares for Wimbledon, managing her back issue and the emotional toll of her personal challenges, Raducanu’s tearful victory at Eastbourne is a powerful reminder of her tenacity. With Jones by her side and a nation cheering her on, she’s proving that even on the toughest days, she’s ready to fight.
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