Twelve months ago, Emma Raducanu’s Wimbledon experience included a hospitality appearance for her sponsors.
The 21-year-old British player missed her hometown Grand Slam after undergoing surgery on her wrist and ankle, but she returned this year in encouraging form with a smile on her face.
“Last year was really hard because you were walking through the tunnel and seeing your teammates going to practice, going to games,” the 2021 U.S. Open champion said.
“It really stung on the other side. It wasn’t good and I didn’t really watch any tennis.
“For me to be on this side this year is very special.”
Raducanu missed the French Open clay court to focus on staying fit and ready for the British grass court season – a move that already looks to be paying off.
After reaching the Nottingham semi-finals, he reached the Eastbourne quarter-finals, including defeating American world No. 5 Jessica Pegula.
“I think I’m in a really good position,” said Raducanu, who faces Russian 22nd seed Ekaterina Alexandrova on Monday.
“I did a lot of work at the end of the year to get back in shape. I’ve continued that work this year.
“My body feels great. There’s no question about it.”
