"She was a solid pillar and compass for me, as indeed for all British people" - Emma Raducanu on Queen Elizabeth II

Emma Raducanu shared her thoughts after the passing of Queen Elizabeth the second calling her a pillar both for her and the British people.

Raducanu is the best British player on the WTA Tour and despite her ranking drop interest for her in Britain and abroad was never higher. She knew her response to the monarch's passing will be in the spotlight and she took her time to articulate her views and did a strong job with it:

"Honestly, it's very sad. When I heard the news, I couldn't believe it, because she was a solid pillar and compass for me, as indeed for all British people. Everything around was changing, but she remained a constant. She led our country and indeed the world in a very strong way. Britain will be mourning for quite some time".

The Queen herself congratulated Raducanu personally after her US Open triumph with the words:

"I send my congratulations to you on your success in winning the United States Open Tennis Championships. It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication. I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent Leylah Fernandez, will inspire the next generation of tennis players. I send my warmest good wishes to you and your many supporters."