IN a time period on earth where everything is unpredictable, it seems somewhat fitting that a relatively unknown 18-year-old qualifier from Great Britain would lift the US Open trophy on her senior women’s singles debut. The British star not only broke history by coming through the tournament without dropping a set, but Emma Raducanu made herself a household name by doing it the hard way. Having to earn her spot in the main draw via qualifiers, Raducanu blasted through 10 different opponents to stunningly take the title.

Raducanu’s most recent win was the biggest of the lot, defeating Canadian and fellow teenager Leylah Fernandez in the final, 6-4 6-3. Despite it being another straight sets victory, it was far from straight forward, with Raducanu having to face multiple Championship points – and an opponent who refused to give in to win a remarkable maiden championship title. Combining for an age of just 37 at 18 and 19 respectively, Raducanu became the first ever qualifier to win a Grand Slam event.

“I think this final shows that the future of women’s tennis and just the depth of the game right now is so great,” Raducanu said post-match. “I think every single player in the women’s draw definitely has a shot to win any tournament. I hope that the next generation can follow in the steps of the greatest legends—like Billie Jean King—and everyone who is at the top of the game right now.”

Both players were neck-and-neck in the opening set, though the Brit was looking more confident and consistent on serve. After holding the ninth game to lead 5-4, Raducanu broke her opponent with the second set point she had to close out the game. The second set saw Fernandez break early in the third game with her second break point to lead 2-1. Sensing the importance of an immediate response, Raducanu broke immediately back to level the score, then held in a run of four straight games with another break an hold.

Serving at 2-5 down, Fernandez showed the incredible grit she has all tournament, fighting back from two championship point to hold and force Raducanu to serve out the match. The fighting continued into what would be the final game of the match, with Fernandez hitting a great deep shot late to open up a break point opportunity. Then came an unusual moment with Raducanu getting off the deck and revealing a cut down her leg from sliding on the hard court, forcing a medical timeout. Whilst frustrating for Fernandez at the time, there was little to be done. Raducanu came back on to save the point and then open up a third championship point, winning it with her third ace of the match.

Raducanu hit 22 winners to 18 and one less unforced error (25-26) in what was an even match. It was serving consistency that proved key, as Raducanu won 67 per cent of her first set points off a 69 per cent clip, compared to Fernandez’ 56 off 58 per cent. The Brit also only served two double faults to five, and broke four times, though credit to Fernandez for saving a whopping 16 opportunities for her opponent.

Both players have bolted up the WTA Tour Rankings, with Raducanu moving all the way up from 150th in the world to 23rd and being automatically seeded at her next tournament. Fernandez herself made a huge rise from 66th to 28th, and both players will now become household names on the WTA Tour.

US OPEN WOMEN’S FINAL RESULT:

[Q] Emma Raducanu (GBR) defeated Leylah Fernandez (CAN) 6-4 6-3

Picture credit: Darren Carroll/USTA