Emma Raducanu has one more shot to get some matches under her belt ahead of Wimbledon.
The British number one reached the quarter-finals of the Queen’s HSBC Championships where she lost to Olympic champion Qinwen Zheng.
With the prestigious grass court Grand Slam on the horizon, some players have chosen to use the week leading up to the tournament to rest and train.
But the 23-year-old opted to head to Eastbourne to build more form and confidence on the road to Wimbledon.
Emma Raducanu says she ‘forgot’ something about playing at Eastbourne
Emma Raducanu is set to return to the Eastbourne International where she reached the quarter-finals in 2024.
This is her first time playing since reaching the last eight at Queen’s, but she will have to make an adjustment at Eastbourne as far as the conditions are concerned.
The WTA 250 tournament tends to take place in blustery conditions due to its position on the southeast coast of England.
As much as Raducanu is happy to be back at Eastbourne, she is undertaking the challenge of playing in windy conditions.
“I had a great time last year and that helps having good memories in a place,” Raducanu told the media.
“All in all, I’m looking forward to this week and also preparing for Wimbledon. It’s so windy – I definitely forgot how windy it was so I’m trying to get used to that.
“In London I was feeling good but coming to Eastbourne, not so good (with the conditions), but I think that’s something that everyone has to accept and come to terms with.
“It’s going to be a battle of who can manage the conditions better and who can manage themselves and their attitude and not get too frustrated.”
Who is Emma Raducanu’s first opponent at the Eastbourne International?
Raducanu will commence her Eastbourne International campaign against Ann Li.
The American began her grass court season by reaching the round of 16 at the Libema Open, where she lost to Suzan Lamens.
Raducanu is set to play Li for the first time and she is aware of what she brings to the table and will have to be ready for a difficult match. “Very tough first round – it’s a difficult draw,” Raducanu added.
“First match playing Ann Li, I know she has big weapons – good forehand, good serve and can slice her backhand around so it’s going to be a tough match.
“Centre Court here is really nice and I’m looking forward to getting out there and playing in front of the crowd.”
