Emma Raducanu’s path to Wimbledon is clear now after her fine run at Queen’s last week.
After all, having opted to withdraw from Nottingham, we now know that she will enjoy a week of rest before heading to Eastbourne, which will therefore mark her final tournament before heading to the All England Club.
To most, this seems like an intelligent move.
Ironically, it’s the exact opposite of what Greg Rusedski had suggested.
Greg Rusedski’s ignored advice for Emma Raducanu
Speaking on his Off Court with Greg podcast, the former British number one had instead argued: “I think if I was coaching her I would put to play next week and then to take the week off before Wimbledon so she has a few days off.
“She has already had enough grass court matches, and you want to keep that momentum going and have that extra week before the Championships start.”
How far do you think Emma Raducanu will go at Wimbledon after watching her at Queen’s?
Then, on Emma Raducanu improved form, he added: “She is a massive asset [to women’s tennis]. She came out of nowhere and won 10 matches to win the US Open. Emma’s story being from Britain, the background, the story, the look. It’s good to see. She has also signed a new contract with a new clothing company so they will be delighted as well.
“There are a lot of positives, and you need the big names in there. You need rivalries and players who the fans really get behind. In Britain she is still the top dog in the women’s game, everybody is talking about her no matter what, and all of a sudden the expectations for Wimbledon have just gone up.”
Raducanu has hit a new ranking milestone after her run in Queen’s, which puts her in a really strong position now heading into Wimbledon.
Emma Raducanu finally puts a run of fitness together
It feels like forever since we have been able to see Raducanu actually string together a run of wins, and the hope is that this can prove to be a springboard to greater successes.
After all, the last time she did this, earlier this year in Romania, she picked up an illness which ravaged the following months and ruled her out for the bulk of the clay-court season.
This time, she does have a minor injury to contend with, but hopefully this shouldn’t provide too much hassle.
Where do you think Emma Raducanu will finish 2026 ranked?
That being said, Raducanu does need to be careful.
In 2026, she has shown that she can compete when not thwarted by poor fitness or health. She must do everything she can to ensure that these two elements stay in perfect condition.
Enjoying a well-earned week of rest now, before returning to action in Eastbourne, should be the perfect preparation. Ignoring Rusedski’s advice could prove to be a smart decision from Raducanu.
