Women’s Wrap: Fourth time’s a charm for Raducanu

The Londoner, who seemed relaxed in tense moments, explained her positive approach. “I think sometimes it’s better to breathe, to laugh, rather than stress,” she said.

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The 2021 US Open champion received congratulations for her victory over Anisimova from compatriot Andy Murray, a five-time AO singles finalist who became coach of longtime rival Novak Djokovic.

Consistency and improved defensive play also played a role on Thursday. Anisimova, ranked 26 places higher than Raducanu, dictated much of the match by hitting 39 winners, but was undone by 44 unforced errors.

“I think she hits one of the cleanest balls on tour, so powerful,” Raducanu said of her good friend.

The world No. 61, who knocked out 26th-seeded Ekaterina Alexandrova in the first round, admitted she competed against Anisimova because of pain but downplayed the severity of a potential back problem. Instead, she will aim to recover well and cause another upset on Saturday when she faces second seed Iga Swiatek.

Raducanu said she was looking forward to facing the 23-year-old Pole, a five-time major champion whom she has not beaten in three attempts.

“At the end of the day, you play tennis and you live for these matches, it’s going to be a big adrenaline rush,” she smiles.

“Every match I get to play against these top opponents, I love it. It’s another opportunity to test my game, to see where I’m at,” she said. “I have nothing to lose and I’m just going to rock, I’m going to do my best.”