Emma Raducanu is very happy with her level at the 2024 ASB Classic, her first tournament since a long layoff with injury.
Raducanu lost to Elina Svitolina at the ASB Classic. However, the first two sets of the contest were of outstanding quality. It was only in the deciding set that the Brit fell away slightly.
Some fatigue from Raducanu's first-round win against Elena-Gabriela Ruse may have played a part. She won that match in three long sets, and getting over the line in three sets again so soon into her comeback was a tough ask.
Nevertheless, the high level of Raducanu's tennis surprised many. These were her first competitive matches in nearly nine months, making her performances extremely admirable, with the fans in Auckland clearly appreciating her efforts.
After the match, during her press conference, Raducanu said she was feeling good after being able to compete with a great player like Svitolina so early into her comeback.
"I'm pretty proud of how quickly I was able to get my level up to be able to compete with Elina. But it for sure gives me a lot of confidence and looking forward to in time with more matches, more practice, more gym sessions, seeing where I go from there."
Raducanu has spoken about her more positive and grateful outlook on life after her time on the sidelines. That mentality may have helped her to succeed on her comeback, and to give further motivation to keep working hard.
The 2021 US Open champion was also upbeat about the shots she missed in the second set tiebreak she lost, being happy that she tried to be aggressive and play her game.
"I was a few points away, and had a few forehands mid-court, but at least I took them. I think I'd regret it more if I pushed it in and let her hit a winner."
Raducanu also qualified recently for the Australian Open main draw. She has a lot to be positive about as her comeback continues.
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