“It came with a lot of challenges…” Self-belief advocate Emma Raducanu reflects on US Open triumph and constant criticism afterwards

Emma Raducanu recently gave some insights on her most-accomplished achievement to date, the 2021 US Open win. The Brit had then just ventured into the main draw at the age of 18 and stunned the world by achieving this feat.

Raducanu had to qualify in order to make it to the main draw. Surprisingly, she did it with ease but still not many knew who she was. However, her name soon was imprinted in every fan’s memory as she fought up the places and beat players to make it to the final, where she beat Leylah Fernandez to lift her maiden Grand Slam title.

It was a miracle for the 18-year-old from Britain to achieve the biggest title of her career at such an early age. However, it was not all easy for the youngster who attained success before having to taste failure. Soon after, Raducanu started getting heavily criticized for it. The fans expected way more from her and she would often underperform.

At one point, the negativity got to a point where Raducanu revealed that she wished she had not won the title. Although she did reconsider her words, it was said once. Presently, the Brit was called for an interview with Marie Claire UK, where she reflected on her US Open triumph.

Winning the US Open was my career highlight... It came with a lot of challenges but I think that what it gave me outweighs everything else.

Emma Raducanu said via Marie Claire UK

This negativity was a blessing in disguise as it taught Raducanu the value of expectations. Moreover, she also got hit with recurring injuries after the 2021 US Open win. With ankle injuries followed by knee injuries, Raducanu certainly learned a lot from her experiences.

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Emma Raducanu reveals the biggest lesson she learned during her injury period

Emma Raducanu revealed some of the learning she learned while being injured. The 21-year-old is no stranger to injury. Ever since she won at the 2021 US Open, she got struck by recurring injuries which kept her out of the game for a long time.

However, the injuries taught her a lot and Raducanu shared her learning in the recent interview with Marie Claire UK. The Brit revealed that she learned to be more patient and never rush into things.

I think the biggest lesson I’ve learnt in terms of injury recovery is not to rush back. My impatience is probably one of my biggest downfalls because I basically rushed the process of my recovery

Emma Raducanu said via Marie Claire UK

Now, Raducanu does not hesitate to prioritize her body. Heading into 2024, Raducanu decided the tournaments she wanted to compete in the year. Keeping her body in check, Raducanu played the tournaments she could and has slowly improved her ranking and form as well.

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