Emma Raducanu honoured with new award for reaching fourth round of Wimbledon

Emma Raducanu’s improved form this summer has seen her crowned the LTA’s Female Young Player of the Month for July. The 21-year-old has struggled for form and fitness ever since her remarkable US Open win in September 2021, but is now showing signs of a renaissance. The British No.3 surged into contention at Wimbledon this summer, raising hopes of a home win as she made it through the first week.

Along the way, she beat Elise Mertens and world No.9 Maria Sakkari, setting up a last-16 clash with New Zealand’s Lulu Sun. Raducanu’s challenge ended there though, beaten in three sets. The tournament followed her reaching the quarter-final stage at Eastbourne, and after choosing to skip the Olympics, she also impressed at the Mubadala Citi DC Open.

There, she again reached the last eight, beaten in an epic clash with eventual champion Paula Badosa. But it was her display at SW19 that saw her rise to No.69 in the world, that has prompted her latest honour. On social media, the official LTA X account posted: “Your Female Player of the Month for July is Emma Raducanu,” before listing the reasons behind the decision.

“Reached the fourth round at Wimbledon. Beat world No.33 Elise Mertens and world No.9 Maria Sakkari along the way. Broke back into the top 100.” The organisation also clarified that the award was voted for ‘exclusively’ by members. Raducanu has embarked on a new fitness regime this year in a bid to address her injury issues, and at Wimbledon she made a statement of intent by withdrawing from the mixed doubles with Andy Murray to prioritise the singles. The decision proved unpopular as it denied Murray a farewell match at SW19, but she was defiant despite criticism.

“I don’t think it was a mistake because I was feeling fine, then Saturday morning just woke up with stiffness (in her wrist),” said Raducanu. “I have to prioritise myself, my singles and my body. “I think it was the right decision and I stand by the decision. Obviously it was a tough decision to make though, because it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do.”

Raducanu had not been past the third round of a Slam since her win at Flushing Meadows three years ago. She’ll return to US Open action this month, with the final Slam of the year getting underway on Monday, August 26.