“I’m ready for more”: Emma Raducanu eyes new physical coach to ‘stay on court longer’

2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu is reportedly in talks to bring on a renowned physical trainer to help her ‘stay on court longer’ in 2025. Raducanu, who played just 13 tournaments this season, missed much of the clay swing (including Roland Garros) and participated in only three of the 10 Masters 1000 events.

Despite hoping to overcome injuries after a nine-month recovery and surgery in 2023, Raducanu still suffered several setbacks this year, causing her to withdraw from tournaments. Her most recent incident was a foot injury at the Korea Open, which forced her to retire during her quarterfinal match against Daria Kasatkina.

The foot injury ruled her out of the Wuhan Open and China Open, effectively ending her WTA Tour season. However, Raducanu is preparing for one final event, representing Team Great Britain at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals starting November 15.

Raducanu recently conversations with a new fitness coach, Yutaka Nakamura, who previously worked with Grand Slam champions Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka. While no official deal has been signed, it appears promising. “I think my goal next year is to stay on court longer,” she commented in a press conference.

“This year, I reached the top 60 in the world but played fewer than 15 events. I know that if I’m on court, healthy, and competing, I can go even higher,” added Raducanu, who rose from outside the top 300 in just six months. “Athleticism is a strength of mine, but it’s nowhere near its full potential. I’m excited to explore that further and ready to commit to."

Since her 2021 US Open title, Raducanu has played in only 8 of the 12 subsequent Grand Slam main draws, reaching the second week just once, in July at Wimbledon, before falling in the fourth round to surprise player Lulu Sun.

“While it’s season’s end for many players, I feel like I’m just beginning to build momentum, training intensely and already focusing on next year. I don’t really want any more time off,” said the forner world No. 10. “I’m excited to compete here this week, take what I learn, and improve for next season.”

Raducanu also shared birthday celebrations on November 13 as she prepared for Team Great Britain’s matchup against Germany. She’s expected to face Eva Lys in the first match of the tie unless any last-minute changes occur. Despite the busy schedule, Raducanu managed a brief celebration for her 22nd birthday.

“I’m really grateful my team went out of their way to make me feel special,” she shared. “There were banners, cake, and balloons. It was lovely, despite the weather. We couldn’t go out, but it’s how it goes. It was still memorable, and I had a great time.”