2025-07-01 10:30:50
Emma Raducanu was relieved to overcome compatriot Mimi Xu in her Wimbledon opener.
The British number one beat 17-year-old Xu in straight sets on No 1. Court in Monday’s (30.06.25) first-round clash and was happy to make light work of what had the potential to be a tricky match.
Raducanu said post-match: “I’m super pleased to have come through that match – it’s so difficult playing another Brit first round.
“When the draw came out, I can’t say that I was loving it. Mimi is a very dangerous player – she’s so young and got some amazing weapons at her disposal.
“I just want to thank everyone for the support on both sides – it was a really nice atmosphere.”
Raducanu wasn’t completely satisfied with her performance but was pleased to produce her best tennis at crucial points of the match.
The former US Open champion said: “Sometimes it’s difficult in the moment with nerves and adrenaline, you don’t really have an idea of what’s going on.
“I think I had some really good patches and then some moments where I lost my focus and Mimi was able to come back.
“I’m really happy with how I toughed it out in the really crucial games and won the important points today.”
Raducanu was also pleased to be playing in a lively atmosphere at the All England Club as she made a winning start to her “favourite tournament”.
She said: “I’m glad people are having fun today – I saw a Champagne cork fly onto the court.
“It’s really nice to be back and I just use the support, and I love playing in this atmosphere. It’s my favourite tournament by far. I’m just so happy to get another match here.”
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