‘She’s Under a Huge Microscope’: Martina Navratilova Believes 2022 Will Be Hard for Emma Raducanu

The year 2021 has been an astonishing one for Emma Raducanu. To lift the maiden Grand Slam title in her second appearance at Majors was truly unfathomable. However, the 18-time Grand Slam winner, Martina Navratilova feels the Brit needs more experience on the tour.

Navratilova also believes that Raducanu has got great potential to compete at the highest level of tennis. With the spotlight on her, it’s going to be challenging for the 19-year-old.

Martina Navratilova on Emma Raducanu

Martina Navratilova is one of the legends of the game. She has been at the epitome of Women’s tennis for many many years. Recently, Navratilova reflected on Emma Raducanu‘s successful yet challenging year. Raducanu did the unexpected at the US Open 2021 to win her first Grand Slam title, coming from qualifying stages.

However, since then, she hasn’t been able to show her dominance on the WTA Tour. On this, Martina Navratilova said, “ It’s going to be hard for her this year. Players have seen her, they know what to do against her. But most of all, she just needs matches. She’s the biggest wildcard for me. Because clearly, she has the ability to play great tennis.”

ALSO READ: Emma Raducanu Could Become The Most Influential Teenager in The World After £3 Million Vodafone Deal

Emma Raducanu last competed professionally at the Linz Open. Unfortunately, her run ended in the round of 16, falling short against Wang Xinyu of China.

Former World No. 1 feels Raducanu is under a huge microscope

In the same interview, Navratilova said, “ And the pressure’s going to be on her emotionally, as well. Being a Brit, she’s under a huge microscope, and it’s hard to get away from it.” 

Moreover, the 18-time Grand Slam champ is surprised to see that Raducanu parted ways with Andrew Richardson, the coach who aided Raducanu to win at Flushing Meadows.

Navratilova thinks she lacks WTA experience with only participating in eight WTA tournaments so far. However, despite Raducanu’s inexperience, former World No. 1 feels she has generated a huge fanbase that will eventually help her.

Watch this story: The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club