Emma Raducanu is poised to launch her preparations for the 2025 tennis season as she gears up to compete at the ASB Classic on December 30, 2024. Following what has been a tumultuous year plagued by injury, the British tennis star is eager to leave her past challenges behind and embrace the forthcoming season with renewed vigor.
After finishing her 2024 campaign with appearances at the Billie Jean King Cup and the Korea Open, where she suffered a foot injury, Raducanu's road to recovery has been anything but smooth. The 22-year-old faced significant obstacles after needing to withdraw from multiple tournaments, including the Hong Kong Open and the China Open, which dealt harsh blows to her momentum. Hailing from the UK, she was determined to minimize the impact of these setbacks and is now focusing entirely on her training.
Having reached Auckland, Raducanu has been spotted hitting the gym and is excited about the upcoming tournament. She recently posted on her Instagram, sharing glimpses of her training with her followers and donning her workout gear, prompting anticipation for her performance at the ASB Classic.
Reflecting on her career, Raducanu recently discussed the impact of her stunning victory at the US Open when she was only 19. "Initially when I first started, before I won the US Open, my main reason was: 'I want to win a grand slam'. And the young athlete achieved her goal early on. "But as soon as it happened, I’m like, 'OK, well what now? I want to win another grand slam'. It’s just not sustainable for me,” she explained. Yet, with her new mindset, she has learned to find joy beyond titles.
The Brit is embracing her comeback by hiring fitness trainer Yukata Nakamura, who joins lead coach Nick Cavaday. This new partnership aims to build her stamina and keep injuries at bay through targeted training. "I want to play more than I did this year," Raducanu stated, emphasizing her intent to compete more frequently and effectively. "I think now, with my setup, I’m in a place where I can continue work on the road," she noted, signifying her readiness to adapt and build her training regimen around her travels.
Her desire to maximize her potential is clear. "I really want to see how good I can be," she affirmed. Raducanu is focusing not just on her physical capabilities but also on her mental resilience as she prepares for the upcoming season. She acknowledges the need for balance, having once felt overwhelmed by the pressures of sponsorships and expectations following her US Open win.
"I’ve learned how to say no a bit more. Initially, I felt really bad for letting people down," Raducanu shared, reflecting on the lessons learned throughout her career. She aims to be more structured now, dedicates specific time to business engagements, and maintains her core focus on training and competing.
With the new season approaching, the tennis community is buzzing with speculation about Raducanu’s potential comeback. Eurosport experts have voiced their belief in her abilities, with former tennis star Mats Wilander expressing hope for Raducanu to reclaim her status, predicting her as a strong contender for comeback player of the year. "I’m hoping and praying [...] Why not Emma [Raducanu]," he enthused. Such endorsements from seasoned players highlight the optimism surrounding her return to the court.
With her eyes set firmly on the ASB Classic, Raducanu embodies the spirit of determination and resilience, proving she is ready to embrace whatever challenges come her way. After overcoming numerous health and performance hurdles, the 2025 season holds promise not only for her but also for her loyal fans and supporters eager to see her flourish once again.
Staying true to her goals, Raducanu aims to redefine her narrative within the sport, seeking to fulfill her potential and solidify her place among the elite players on tour. The tennis world will certainly be watching as she approaches the new year, optimistic about what lies ahead.
