Emma Raducanu has advanced to her first final since her stunning triumph at the 2021 US Open. The British No 1 overcame Oleksandra Oliynykova in a hard-fought semi-final at the Transylvania Open in Cluj, winning 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 to secure her place in the title match. This achievement offers Raducanu a chance to claim her first title since her remarkable victory at Flushing Meadows, which marked her emergence as a formidable competitor on the WTA Tour.
In a historic moment for British tennis, two British women will participate in separate WTA Tour finals on the same day for the first time, as Katie Boulter also reached the final of the Ostrava Open.
Raducanu’s physical and mental state ahead of her final against Sorana Cirstea is uncertain, especially after enduring one of the most grueling matches of her career. The semi-final was a battle of attrition, with Oliynykova employing frustrating tactics, such as heavy moon balls and slices, leaving Raducanu physically exhausted following a near three-hour contest.
“What an incredible match,” Raducanu reflected after her victory. “I think all props to my opponent today. She played incredibly and made it so tricky to put any ball past her. You think it’s past her, and then the ball is on your baseline or on your sideline, so it’s so difficult. I’m just most proud of how I competed, how I came back in the third set, and how I managed the match. I honestly don’t know if I could have done it without everyone’s support.”
The match had its challenges, particularly when Raducanu had earlier broken to lead 5-4 in the first set. Despite some tense moments, she reclaimed control, even coming back after trailing in the deciding set. Raducanu won an impressive 16 consecutive points during a critical stretch, highlighting her resilience and fighting spirit.
Earlier in the day, Katie Boulter secured her own spot in the Ostrava Open final, defeating American Katie Volynets in straight sets, 6-1, 6-3. Boulter established an early advantage by breaking in the initial game, ultimately securing a convincing victory to advance to what is now her fifth WTA final.
With two British players competing for titles on the same day, there’s a renewed sense of optimism and excitement within British tennis, amplifying the hope that they can both bring home victories. The stage is set for an exhilarating finish to the weekend.