Marketa Vondrousova admitted she didn’t enjoy her latest Centre Court experience after losing to Emma Raducanu under the roof at Wimbledon.
The 26-year-old was beaten in straight sets by the home favourite, who earned high praise from Tracy Austin for her performance.
This is the second time in as many years that Vondrousova has been knocked out of the Championships on Centre, the same court where she lifted her Grand Slam trophy
The crowd’s energy seemed vital to Raducanu’s victory. It was a two-way street, with the British player fuelling the supporters’ excitement and seeming to benefit from it – something Vondrousova later questioned.
In an interview with Czech media after her defeat, Vondrousova pointed to the atmosphere as a key factor in her loss. She also questioned how Raducanu interacted with the fans during the match.
“It’s very difficult with her in the Centre [Court], it seems to me that she’s a complete idol here. The Centre was packed and she was still teasing people and demanding that they support her.
“She was very excited herself, from the second ball she was shouting all over the court. It’s obvious that she’s enjoying it. It’s just not pleasant. And when you play this well, you’re in a good mood and it’s hard to get out of it.”
Vondrousova has battled through a difficult year. Due to many injuries, Wimbledon was just her seventh tournament of the season.
Surgery on her left shoulder following a first-round exit at last year’s Wimbledon was one of many setbacks she has had to overcome. But this time, Vondrousova was equipped with a clean bill of health for her contest against Raducanu – despite picking up two notable strapping marks on her right arm.
After the match, Vondrousova was in good spirits about her physical condition. She was grateful to have played without pain again.
“Of course I’m disappointed, but at the same time every match I finish without pain is great for me,” Vondrousova added. “I take it a little differently now. I’m sorry about the defeat, but at the same time I’m grateful that I can be here and focus on the game, not the pain.”
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