Raducanu Prepares for Tough Match Against Swiatek at French Open

PARIS, France — Emma Raducanu is gearing up for a challenging second-round match against four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek, set for Wednesday at the famed Court Philippe Chatrier.

The 22-year-old Raducanu earned her spot in the match by overcoming Wang Xinyu in a hard-fought first-round encounter. Despite the victory, Raducanu is aware that facing Swiatek, a dominant force on clay, will be a monumental challenge.

“It’s a tall mountain to climb,” said Annabel Croft, a former British number one who will provide commentary for BBC Radio 5 Live. Croft noted, however, that Swiatek has experienced struggles this season, hinting that an upset may not be out of reach.

Swiatek, currently ranked fifth in the world, has won four of the last five French Opens but has seen inconsistent performances this year. She has not reached a final since her title victory in Paris a year ago, leading some to question her current form.

Pat Cash, a former Wimbledon champion, pointed out Swiatek’s struggles with her forehand, suggesting that her game could be vulnerable this tournament. “She has a real problem with her forehand down the line, and players know that,” Cash stated.

In contrast, Raducanu has recently shown significant improvements, particularly with her backhand. “I think her forehand has developed into one of the best aspects of her game,” Croft added. Nevertheless, Raducanu has faced Swiatek four times previously, losing each match.

“She gets really fired up when she plays me,” Raducanu admitted, reflecting on her past encounters with the Polish player, who she finds difficult to compete against at her best.

Despite a lackluster performance against world number two Coco Gauff earlier this season, Raducanu’s confidence has grown, evidenced by her recent three-set win against Wang. She noted, “I have had a lot more three-set matches this year and come out successful more than in the past, which gives me more confidence.”

Raducanu expressed optimism about her condition heading into the match, saying, “I feel better. I had a good amount of food. I think it was also maybe just an earlier wake-up than usual for me.”

As the matchup approaches, anticipation builds around Raducanu’s ability to challenge Swiatek on the clay.