British tennis star Emma Raducanu has experienced a tumultuous journey since her sensational 2021 US Open victory, where she became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam without dropping a set. The achievement catapulted her into global stardom at just 18 years old, but her subsequent career has been marked by inconsistency, injuries, and challenges adjusting to life on the professional circuit. However, in 2024, Raducanu has shown signs of a resurgence, and wheelchair tennis legend Alfie Hewett believes she has the potential to win Wimbledon in the future.
### **The Journey Since Flushing Meadows**
Raducanu’s remarkable US Open run remains one of the most unforgettable stories in modern tennis. In just her second Grand Slam appearance, she triumphed in 19 consecutive matches, including qualifiers, to lift the trophy. Despite that historic win, Raducanu struggled to replicate her success on the WTA Tour, failing to reach another final in the three years following her breakthrough.
Her career has been marred by frequent injuries, including a nine-month hiatus in 2023 due to wrist surgeries. These setbacks derailed her progress and saw her ranking plummet outside the top 300. However, 2024 marked a turning point for the 22-year-old as she adopted a more measured approach to her schedule, focusing on regaining fitness and consistency.
### **Climbing Back Up the Rankings**
Raducanu’s decision to prioritize quality over quantity has paid dividends this season. She entered 2024 ranked outside the top 300 but has climbed to World No. 58, securing direct entry into major tournaments without relying on wildcards. Her 20-13 win-loss record for the season reflects a marked improvement, and her performances have given fans and analysts hope that she can reestablish herself among the sport’s elite.
This year’s Wimbledon was a highlight of Raducanu’s resurgence. She defeated Renata Zarazua, Elise Mertens, and 9th seed Maria Sakkari to reach the fourth round without dropping a set. Her campaign ended with a surprising loss to Switzerland’s Lulu Sun, but it marked her best Grand Slam performance since her US Open triumph.
### **Hewett’s Optimism for Raducanu’s Future**
Alfie Hewett, a 30-time wheelchair Grand Slam champion, has weighed in on Raducanu’s potential to win another major, particularly at Wimbledon. Speaking to *Tennis365*, Hewett shared an optimistic outlook for the young Briton’s future.
“Emma hadn’t played many professional events when she won the US Open, so she needed time to get used to everything, and it was no surprise that it has been challenging for her,” Hewett explained. “I think she is managing it now.”
Hewett praised Raducanu’s progress in 2024 and believes she has the tools to achieve significant success on the grass courts of Wimbledon. “Emma has a real chance to have a big year. She has proven that when she is fit, healthy, and strong and can get to the end of tournaments, she is definitely up there with some of the best in the game,” he said.
### **Why Wimbledon Could Be Her Next Triumph**
Raducanu’s game is well-suited to grass courts, which reward her aggressive baseline play and swift movement. Her performances at Wimbledon this year demonstrated her potential, as she showcased improved consistency and composure in high-pressure matches.
“She’s got all the ingredients in her game, and she’s done it before, so why not?” Hewett remarked. “I think it’s possible that she could win Wimbledon one day. She had a great run there this year.”
While her fourth-round exit to Lulu Sun was disappointing, it also highlighted the unpredictability of tennis and the importance of experience in navigating the latter stages of major tournaments. Raducanu’s ability to reach the second week at Wimbledon without dropping a set against high-quality opponents is a testament to her potential.
### **Challenges Ahead**
Despite the optimism, Raducanu’s journey back to the top won’t be without challenges. Consistency has been an issue for the Briton since her US Open win, and she will need to maintain her physical health to compete at the highest level. The WTA Tour is more competitive than ever, with players like Iga Świątek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff dominating the circuit.
Additionally, the psychological pressure of living up to her early success continues to be a hurdle. Raducanu’s historic US Open win set sky-high expectations, and balancing those expectations with the reality of a grueling professional career will be key to her long-term success.
### **A Bright Future Awaits**
At just 22 years old, Raducanu has time on her side. Her decision to adopt a lighter schedule this year reflects a mature approach to managing her career. With each tournament, she is gaining valuable experience and rebuilding her confidence.
Hewett’s belief in Raducanu’s potential is shared by many in the tennis world. Her combination of talent, work ethic, and mental resilience positions her as a strong contender for future Grand Slam titles. Wimbledon, with its rich history and unique grass-court challenges, could be the stage for her next major triumph.
As Raducanu continues her journey, fans and analysts will be watching closely, hopeful that the young star can once again light up the tennis world with her brilliance. Whether or not she fulfills Hewett’s prediction, one thing is certain: Emma Raducanu’s story is far from over.