'She knows this place better than anyone else': Elena Rybakina eyes blockbuster clash with Emma Raducanu

Elena Rybakina overcame a spirited challenge from Czech teenager Tereza Valentova book her place in the third round, winning 6-3, 7-6. The world No. 10 secured her spot in the Round of 32 at Flushing Meadows and a high-profile clash against 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu. A well-known opponent, as they had a successful doubles partnership earlier this month, reaching the semifinals of the DC Open.

The Kazakh star admitted the contest was far from straightforward, particularly as she struggled with her serve during key moments in the second set. But ultimately, her ability to take chances in the tiebreak ensured she avoided a decider and sealed victory in straight sets.

Speaking after the match, Rybakina praised her 17-year-old opponent, who impressed with her speed and heavy groundstrokes. “She plays really well, she’s young and has very good shots,” Rybakina reflected. “I was struggling a little bit here and there, but overall I’m happy with the win, especially to get it done in two sets.” The win sets up a highly anticipated meeting with former US Open champion Emma Raducanu.

The upcoming clash is expected to be one of the standout matches of the week, not only because of Rybakina’s consistency at the top level but also because Raducanu has found a surge of form. The Briton, who triumphed at Flushing Meadows in 2021, has been showcasing sharper movement, improved confidence, and a resurgent serve. “We played once a long time ago, and I think now she’s playing really well,” the former world No. 3 said. “She knows this place better than anyone else.”

Rybakina on Raducanu: “She’s playing really well now”

The third-round showdown carries a sense of intrigue given the contrasting journeys of the two Grand Slam champions. Rybakina has firmly established herself inside the top echelon of the women’s game, while Raducanu has battled injuries and inconsistency since her remarkable US Open title run. Yet recent results suggest the Brit is rediscovering her best tennis, something Rybakina is not overlooking.

“She’s always had very good movement on the court, so she’s a tough opponent,” Rybakina commented. “She just played with Aryna [Sabalenka] in a very close match, so I’m expecting a high level from her.” With Raducanu’s serve particularly effective in recent outings, Rybakina highlighted it as a key weapon she must prepare for.

Beyond singles, Rybakina and Raducanu briefly teamed up in doubles earlier this month in DC Open. Together, they defeated the fourth-seeded duo of Tereza Mihalikova and Olivia Nicholls, and then doubles specialists Giuliana Olmos and Aldila Sutjiadi, to reach the semifinals.

They were set to face Taylor Townsend and Shuai Zhang, but they retired from the match when the score was 1-4 in the first set, considering that both were still in the singles competition with matches ahead. “We both don’t play so much doubles, but sometimes at the beginning of a swing it’s nice to play. She just asked me if I wanted to, and it was a lot of fun,” Rybakina explained. The pair had previously attempted to partner in Cincinnati in 2022, but Raducanu withdrew due to injury.

Dealing with expectation

Asked whether she could empathise with Raducanu’s experience of intense scrutiny as a Slam champion, Rybakina was reflective. “It’s not easy, there is a lot of expectation from outside and probably from herself too. But with time you learn. I think now she’s enjoying herself more, she’s happy, she’s playing well, and she’s more free,” she said. Rybakina added that ultimately what matters is the mindset: “The most important is that you know what you’re doing, how you practice, and how you handle it mentally.”

Rybakina’s assessment so far

Rybakina acknowledges that improvements will be needed if she is to advance further. “I know I need to improve a little bit from today, try to do my best and hopefully win that match,” she explained. Despite serving issues against Valentova, Rybakina remains optimistic, noting her ability to problem-solve when things aren’t going smoothly. “Of course, I prefer when my serve is always working, but you need to find solutions when it doesn’t."

Two matches in, Rybakina remains largely content with her progress despite inconsistencies on serve. She noted her ability to adjust to different opponents and conditions as a positive sign. “Sometimes it’s windy, you need to adjust, so every opponent is different. Overall how the match went for me so far is good. But I’m always hungry for more and I want to play even better.” That hunger will be tested against Raducanu in what promises to be a blockbuster contest.

Start time (local): Not scheduled yet

Start time (your time): Not scheduled yet

Tournament: US Open

Round: Round of 32