With the 2021 Indian Wells about to kick-start, all eyes are on the newly crowned US Open champion, Emma Raducanu. Last month, the 18-year-old became the first qualifier to claim a Grand Slam title by defeating Leylah Fernandez.

The British tennis star, who received a wildcard for Indian Wells, has been given a first-round bye for the WTA 1000 event. Raducanu will face either Maria Serrano or Aliaksandra Sasnovich in her opening round match.

Emma Raducanu to make her debut at Indian Wells

During a recent interview with Eurosport, Raducanu mentioned being excited about competing at Indian Wells. With Raducanu making a debut at the prestigious tournament, the crowds’ expectations are high, which certainly puts more pressure on her.

“It’s my first time playing in Indian Wells and it’s a beautiful place. I just can’t wait to get started. I love the facilities, everything is just so nice to be around,” said Raducanu.

The British teenager was also quick to acknowledge the challenging conditions in Indian Wells. Due to soaring mercury levels and dry air, the ball has a tendency to bounce higher.

Top Stories

Alexander Zverev Snaps at Father as Hubert Hurkacz’s Leaves Him Fuming at United Cup: “Guy Can Barely F**** Walk”

Novak Djokovic Makes Concerning Statement Amid Withdrawal From Australian Open Warm-Up

Martina Navratilova Offers Blunt 2-Word Take On America’s Venezuela Oil Sanctions

Venus Williams’ Auckland Swing Ends Early but With an Important Twist

Australian Open Announces Massive Hike in Pay for Carlos Alcaraz, Aryna Sabalenka, & Others

In addition, owing to the slow court speed, Raducanu feels the rallies would be longer and the matches are likely to get physically demanding.

“The air is very dry so it’s going to be tough physically and it’s quite hot at the moment. The courts are slower and high bouncing so it’s probably going to be long rallies, and the balls get quite fluffy pretty quickly,” said Raducanu.

After parting ways with her coach Andrew Richardson, Raducanu has been training with Jeremy Bates. Bates is the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) national women’s coach.

Meanwhile, Raducanu is in search of a long-term coach who has WTA tour experience. As per reports, the names of Darren Cahill, Wim Fissette, Esteban Carril, Iain Hughes, and 3-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray have been doing the rounds as probables for the job of Raducanu’s long-term coach.

Read More: Andy Murray Among Five Options Emma Raducanu May Consider as Her Long-Term Coach