Emma Raducanu delivered a commanding performance at Wimbledon on Wednesday evening, dispatching 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-3 in just 82 minutes as a result of her new "aggressive" tactic, she revealed after the match.
The 22-year-old Briton showcased her finest tennis in recent memory, closing out the match with authority and dominance.
Raducanu sealed victory when Vondrousova pushed a forehand beyond the baseline, earning herself a third-round encounter with world no 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
The British no 1's display was nothing short of exceptional, combining aggressive shot-making with unwavering focus throughout the contest.
British no 1 Emma Raducanu produced a commanding performance against 2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova
Reuters
This straight-sets triumph marks a significant milestone for Raducanu, who dominated proceedings against an opponent who lifted the Venus Rosewater Dish just two years ago.
The British player's aggressive approach proved decisive, with her brilliant forehand dominating virtually every point.
Vondrousova attempted various tactics, switching between power shots, slices and defensive play, but nothing could counter Raducanu's relentless assault.
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Emma Raducanu's win sets up a tie with world no 1 Aryna Sabalenka
Reuters
The Czech player, despite her championship pedigree, appeared thoroughly outclassed throughout the encounter.
Speaking after her victory, Raducanu reflected on her performance: "I think today I played really, really well.
"There were some points I have no idea how I turned around, there was one for sure I remember in the second set."
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She acknowledged the challenge her opponent presented: "I knew playing Marketa it would be an extremely difficult match, she's won this tournament, it's a huge, huge achievement.
"She's also in form really well, so I'm just so happy with how I competed, how I put my game out on the court and I was just really focused the whole way through."
Raducanu also discussed how her and coach Mark Petchey unleashed a new "aggressive" tactic to take down her opponent.
"I knew today I had to be aggressive because Marketa would beat me if I was going to push the ball around," the 22-year-old said.
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Emma Raducanu beat Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-3Reuters"The atmosphere was electric and I'm just so happy to get to play another match here."
Looking ahead to Friday's third-round clash, Raducanu was realistic about the challenge awaiting her: "Of course she's no 1 in the world right now, so dominant on the tour, has won literally everything.
"It's going to be a very difficult match. All I can do is control my side of the court as much as possible.
"I guess there's no pressure on me in the next round at all."
This fearless attitude, combined with her exceptional form against Vondrousova, suggests Raducanu could pose a genuine threat to the world no 1's Wimbledon ambitions.
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