Emma Raducanu has included a pre-match football warm-up in her routine at the US Open as she aims to replicate her remarkable success from last year at Flushing Meadows. The 22-year-old, who shocked the tennis world by winning her first Grand Slam in 2021, has faced challenges in New York in recent times but is showing strong form in this year’s tournament. Raducanu, under the guidance of new coach Francisco Roig, is set to compete against Elena Rybakina for a spot in the fourth round on Friday.
Roig, Raducanu’s ninth coach since 2021, has introduced innovative strategies, such as playing football before matches, which Raducanu credits for putting her in a positive mindset leading to her recent victory. In an interview with The Times, Raducanu expressed her appreciation for Roig’s positive energy and humor, highlighting the importance of a supportive and upbeat atmosphere within the team.
Having previously worked closely with Rafael Nadal, Roig’s discretion in maintaining the privacy of his coaching methods appealed to Raducanu, who values confidentiality in their professional relationship. Raducanu praised Roig for his professionalism and revealed that she seeks his advice on handling nerves and approaching high-stakes matches.
As the excitement builds for the upcoming matches in New York, the tennis world is abuzz with anticipation. With legendary figures like Tom Watson emphasizing the significance of events like the Ryder Cup, memories and heroes are created on the court. In this special edition, the focus is on celebrating these sporting icons as Europe and the USA gear up for another thrilling showdown in New York.
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