Emma Raducanu of Britain states that her encouraging performance at Wimbledon has “ignited the drive” to maintain her positive momentum for the remainder of the season.
The 21-year-old Raducanu faced defeat with a score of 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 against New Zealand qualifier Lulu Sun in the fourth round on Sunday.
This loss was disheartening after a series of impressive performances that had raised expectations at the All England Club.
However, reaching the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time since her victory at the 2021 US Open, Raducanu chose to focus on the positive aspects of the week.
“I feel good about the future. I’m feeling hopeful,” said Raducanu, who is expected to re-enter the world’s top 100 next week.
“As hard as it is to accept, I believe [this loss] occurred for a purpose.
“You don’t want success to come too easily or too quickly. I experienced that before and I don’t want just a huge spike in results.”
Raducanu, who received a wildcard to compete at the All England Club, was outmatched for most of an exciting match.
Lulu Sun, having won six consecutive matches on the Wimbledon grass, displayed confidence with numerous winners.
Raducanu regained some momentum by taking the second set but lost her serve early in the final set soon after requiring medical attention following a fall.
The first game of the third set was halted for treatment on her leg and back while she lay on the court.
Reflecting on her absence from last year’s Wimbledon due to surgeries on both wrists and her ankle, she said: “Six months ago, when I was just recovering from surgery, I would have embraced reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon.
“Naturally, I’m disappointed. Of course I desire more.”
“This experience fuels my desire and increases my hunger.”
