"So much stuff is said about me that isn’t true" - Raducanu on dealing with media scrutiny

Saturday, 10 December 2022 at 14:00

Updated at Thursday, 12 December 2024 at 07:25

byJordan Reynolds

Emma Raducanu spoke honestly about the adversity and increased media attention she received this year, including dealing with things being written about her that are not true.

Raducanu manages intense scrutiny in each match she plays after stunning the tennis world by winning the 2021 US Open title as an 18-year-old qualifier. The Briton did not drop a set in qualifying or the main draw.

After that sudden rise, Raducanu has had to learn how to handle the mental and physical strength needed for the long and grueling WTA calendar. Adjusting to that while being known worldwide after what she achieved at the US Open was difficult.

The shock of what is needed physically to compete consistently at the top of women's tennis is demonstrated by the many injuries Raducanu picked up in 2022, including one that ruled her out of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.

Andy Murray has suggested that Raducanu hire a full-time strength and conditioning coach to prevent repeated injuries. She might also want a more prolonged spell with a general coach. Dimitry Tursunov left her team after three months in the role.

Although 2022 was a challenging season, Raducanu is proud of her resilience while battling difficult moments. She feels this year was about getting used to the attention of the WTA Tour and being a worldwide name.

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"Professionally speaking, I’m very proud of my resilience this year. I've faced quite a bit of adversity and I’ve had to keep getting back up a lot. So much stuff is said about me that isn’t true, but I try not to let it affect me."

"The past year has meant getting used to that side of things – the publicity and hearing all these things I never even knew about myself! The attention on the tour is so intense."

"The gains you get are so, so worth it. It gives me such satisfaction. Also, the competitive element. I'm very competitive and when it's close, when no one really knows what's going to happen – the suspense, the adrenaline… It’s addictive."