Emma Raducanu Advances at Miami Open After Kessler Injury

MIAMI, Fla. — Emma Raducanu advanced to the round of 16 at the Miami Open on Sunday after her opponent, McCartney Kessler, retired due to injury. Raducanu took the first set decisively, 6-1, and was leading 3-0 in the second set when Kessler called for a physio and ultimately withdrew because of a back issue.

Raducanu, the British No. 2, displayed an impressive performance, capturing the first set in just 30 minutes. She won 29 of 43 points in the first set and maintained her momentum until Kessler’s retirement. “I could tell something was up and it is hard to stay focused when your opponent is struggling,” Raducanu said during her courtside interview. “I wish her a speedy recovery because she has been playing so well.”

The 22-year-old Raducanu highlighted her own focus during the match, stating, “I returned really well and put pressure on the serve, imposing myself from the first game. I’m really proud of myself and the work my team has been putting in.”

This victory marks a significant moment for Raducanu, who had faced five losses in her previous six matches since the Australian Open. “I think it’s a different approach this week,” Raducanu added. “Five minutes before the match, I was playing spike ball with the team. It helps me to relax.”

In the next round, Raducanu is set to face Amanda Anisimova, the No. 17 seed, who defeated Mirra Andreeva 7-6 (7-5), 2-6, 6-3. This match will be particularly challenging for Raducanu, who acknowledged Anisimova’s form: “Both are top players, both have won WTA 1000 titles this season,” she remarked, anticipating a difficult matchup.

The Miami Open has seen surprising results this week, including Australian Open champion Madison Keys’ unexpected exit. She was defeated 6-4, 6-2 by Filipino wildcard Alexandra Eala, who expressed the significance of her win: “I hope this takes Filipino tennis to the next step.” Eala will face Paula Badosa in the last 16 after Badosa beat Denmark’s Clara Tauson.

Former champion and second seed, Iga Swiatek, also advanced, defeating Elise Mertens 7-6 (7-2), 6-1. Swiatek is the first player to reach the last 16 in 25 consecutive WTA 1,000 events, a streak that began in Cincinnati 2021.

As Raducanu continues her journey in the tournament, she hopes to regain the form that led her to success in 2021. “When I’m playing my best tennis, I’m really expressing my personality. I don’t need restrictions or being told what to do,” Raducanu said, emphasizing the need for authenticity in her game.