Emma Raducanu to make doubles debut at 2022 Citi Open in Washington
WTA
Emma Raducanu will play doubles at the 2022 Citi Open in Washington alongside a fellow young star on the WTA Tour.
Raducanu hopes to ignite what has been a tough season for her during the North American hard court season. The Briton's latest disappointment was a second-round Wimbledon loss to Caroline Garcia.
However, Raducanu could change her fortunes if she finds some of the inspiration from her run to the 2021 US Open title as an 18-year-old qualifier. That was one of the most unexpected in tennis history.
Although her heroics last year showed surprising results happen, she will likely need to find some rhythm before this year's US Open to go far again in New York. Raducanu's run to the fourth round of Wimbledon last year may have helped her at Flushing Meadows last year.
The 19-year-old wants to play more matches to find form. Raducanu's entry in the women's doubles at the Citi Open demonstrates this. It will be Raducanu's doubles debut on the WTA Tour.
Raducanu will team up with fellow talented teenager Clara Tauson. The Dane already possesses a powerful and imposing game despite being just 19 years old, meaning she and Raducanu should be a fun pair to watch.
Tauson and Raducanu will face Lucia Hradecka and Monica Niculescu, the third-seeded pair in Washington. It is a tough draw, but the teenagers have a chance because of their natural talent.
This seems like a wise move from Raducanu. Adapting to hardcourts again after playing on grass and clay can be challenging for players. Therefore, playing as many matches as possible should help her to adjust.
Playing doubles will also help Raducanu with other aspects of her game, including volleying, one of her weakest areas. Competing in doubles is the best way to focus on becoming a sharper volleyer.
