Emma Raducanu has now sought to rate her chances and the dangers that Mimi Xu, her first-round opponent at Wimbledon, poses.
Facing a 17-year-old compatriot, there is a quiet danger about this draw for the new British number one.
After all, the contender has nothing to lose, whereas she, after admitting she is returning to the All-England Club embroiled in emotional turmoil, has everything.
Given that Raducanu’s Wimbledon draw will only get harder, Xu should provide a nice easy entrance back into elite grass-court tennis.
However, she is keen not to underestimate her young opponent.
Emma Raducanu gives verdict on ‘dangerous’ Mimi Xu
Seeking to rate Xu’s abilities, Emma Raducanu admitted: ‘Yeah, I think it’s a very dangerous match, very difficult.
‘I think Mimi is a really, really good player, I’ve practised with her a few times, a lot of weapons, also moves really well.
‘So it’s gonna be a really difficult match and for her, you know, it’s one where there’s nothing to lose. I remember when I played my first Wimbledon and I was 18, you know, it’s a great feeling. You just feel like completely fearless.
‘So I think for me, it’s gonna be a challenge, but one that I’m looking forward to and I’m ready for.’
Then asked her thoughts on dealing with this new generation already coming through, she continued: ‘Yeah, it does feel like a long time ago. I mean, a lot has happened in the last four years. But it’s good you know to see a new generation and it keeps us on our toes.
‘It keeps us hungry to improve. And yeah, it’s just healthy competition between all of us, and I know I’m going to have to bring a really good level of tennis on Monday if I want to get through.’
Emma Raducanu speaks about Carlos Alcaraz rumours
Whilst it was interesting to see what Raducanu thought about Xu, her first-round opponent, reporters had likely flocked to her press conference for one outstanding reason.
After all, since she has returned to the All-England Club the 22-year-old has been pictured heavily with Carlos Alcaraz, reigniting rumours about the nature of their relationship.
Asked about practising with the Spaniard ahead of Wimbledon, she began by stating: ‘We were both on court with Evian. We were just getting some volley practice in ahead of New York.
‘I’m really happy to be playing with him — we had a good time.’
And then, in the very last question of the conference, another reporter posed: ‘Is there any truth in the rumours?’
Raducanu’s response was short, as she claimed they were ‘just good friends’ with a smile plastered across her face.
