Emma Raducanu battles Qinwen Zheng at Queen's Club in the quest for a semi-final spot. Follow live updates.
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Emma Raducanu is back on the court today, putting her skills to the test against Qinwen Zheng at Queen’s Club. After a brilliant run in the HSBC Championships, Raducanu has yet to drop a set, defeating both Cristina Bucsa and Rebecca Sramkova to reach the quarter-finals.
This week is particularly historic for the 2021 US Open champion as she gears up for Wimbledon, which looms on the horizon.
With her recent success and the early exit of her doubles partner Katie Boulter, Raducanu is set to reclaim her status as British No.
1 for the first time in two years. However, standing in her way is the formidable Zheng, the current world No. 5, who breezed past the first round and then showcased her resilience in a tense encounter against American McCartney Kessler.
Live updates from Raducanu vs Zheng
The match begins with a shaky start for Raducanu, but Zheng quickly capitalizes with a stunning forehand winner that rattles the crowd. Unforced errors plague Raducanu as she struggles with her serve, netting her first attempt and barely saving her second with a fortuitous net cord. With three match points on the line for Zheng, the tension rises.
Raducanu saves the first match point with a solid serve, and a clever body serve catches Zheng off guard, saving the second. However, a backhand return from Zheng puts the pressure back on the Briton, who ultimately falters, sending a forehand long and ending her remarkable run at Queen’s.
Zheng regains control
As the match progresses, Zheng finds her rhythm, effortlessly recovering from a double-break down. Her powerful topspin forehand and a breathtaking backhand down the line leave the crowd in awe. Raducanu, now on the back foot, musters her strength to serve and stay in the match.
But Zheng’s precision leads to an early lead in the next game, and the atmosphere becomes increasingly tense. Raducanu misjudges her serve toss, but with sheer determination, she delivers a series of powerful strikes to regain some control. However, a critical double fault allows Zheng to seize a break point, equalizing the score.
The turning point
Raducanu’s big moment arrives as she holds her serve to love, showcasing her prowess. With a double-break advantage, she can serve for the set. Zheng, however, displays her tenacity by saving two break points, but Raducanu stays focused, determined to maintain her lead.
As the match heats up, Zheng makes a tactical switch, opting for a new racket. This momentary change seems to momentarily disrupt Raducanu’s momentum, but she quickly regains her footing, leading by three in the second set. The energy shifts, and Raducanu capitalizes on Zheng’s errors to break early, showcasing her fighting spirit.
What’s next for Raducanu?
Despite the ups and downs, Raducanu fights through each game, battling not only Zheng but the mounting pressure of the match. As the crowd rallies behind her, questions linger: Can she maintain this momentum? Will she pull off a stunning comeback against the Olympic champion?
With every point, the stakes grow higher. This clash at Queen’s Club is not just about tennis; it’s a testament to resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Stay tuned as we follow the thrilling conclusion of this high-stakes match.
