Emma Raducanu Advances at the US Open
Emma Raducanu advanced to the third round of the US Open with a commanding performance, defeating Janice Tjen in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1, on Wednesday. This victory at Louis Armstrong Stadium echoed Raducanu’s remarkable 2021 championship run, where she claimed the Grand Slam title as a qualifier without dropping a set. Currently, the British No. 1 is showing promising form, reminiscent of her earlier success.
Match Highlights
Raducanu’s opponent, 23-year-old qualifier Janice Tjen, had hoped to find inspiration in Raducanu’s incredible journey. However, Tjen’s attempt to make a significant mark at this year’s tournament was thwarted in just an hour of play, as she suffered a swift defeat, marking a disappointing exit after her earlier upset of 24th seed Veronika Kudermetova.
With an ace to kick off the match, Raducanu set a positive tone and continued to deliver a superb performance, particularly with her serve. In the opening set, she dropped only seven points while serving, recorded five aces — finishing the match with a total of eight — and consistently targeted the backhand of her opponent.
Player Comparisons
Tjen has modeled her game after tennis great Ash Barty and utilized her heavy topspin forehand effectively in her previous match, but she could not replicate that success against Raducanu’s high-caliber play.
Despite an impressive record on lower tours since completing college in California last year, Tjen faced a level of competition she was not accustomed to, highlighting Raducanu’s elevated form — strong serves, precise groundstrokes, strategic play, and agile movement.
Looking Ahead
Should Raducanu face former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina next, her repertoire of skills will be crucial, but she possesses the confidence to challenge any opponent moving forward in the tournament.
