Emma Raducanu is set for a challenging match at the China Open as she faces world No. 7 Jessica Pegula, fighting for a spot in the tournament’s last 16. The British No. 1 entered the competition with a bye in the opening round and kicked off her campaign with a solid 6-3, 6-3 win over Cristina Bucșa. Despite the straight-set victory, Raducanu faced moments of pressure, notably saving six break points in the first set.
In her post-match comments, Raducanu, ranked world No. 31, emphasized her satisfaction at overcoming the challenge, especially following a disappointing end at the Korea Open, where she lost to Barbora Krejcikova after holding three match points. Her current win in China bolsters her confidence and the chances of securing a seeding at the upcoming Australian Open. Raducanu expressed her excitement about playing in China, stating her personal connection to the country, “I’m half-Chinese so it’s great to come back.”
Today’s encounter marks a significant opportunity for Raducanu as she seeks her fourth career victory over a top-10 opponent. Out of her previous 18 encounters against such high-ranking players, Raducanu has claimed victory only three times, one of which was against Pegula at Eastbourne last year. Since then, the two met again with Pegula emerging victorious in Miami earlier this year.
Jessica Pegula, in fine form, advanced to the third round with a straightforward 6-0, 6-3 win over Ajla Tomljanvoci. The American, who reached the semi-finals of the US Open recently, is eager for her fourth title of the season, having already clinched wins at the ATX Open, Charleston Open, and Bad Homburg Open.
The winner of Raducanu vs. Pegula will face 23rd seed Marta Kostyuk in the next round, after Kostyuk dispatched world No. 130 Aliaksandra Sasnovich with a 6-4, 6-2 victory. As Raducanu prepares to showcase her resilience and skill, anticipation builds for this captivating duel on the courts of Beijing.