“She’s probably feeling a self-imposed pressure”: Lindsay Davenport backs Emma Raducanu to challenge Aryna Sabalenka

Former world No. 1 Lindsay Davenport believes Emma Raducanu could pull off a surprise against Aryna Sabalenka in the third round of Wimbledon. The 2021 US Open champion has had a couple of strong opening rounds—including a victory over the 2023 Wimbledon champion Markéta Vondroušová—but this time she'll have to face the current world No. 1 and top favorite.

Raducanu hasn't had too many bright spots in her career since winning her first major title at Flushing Meadows at just 18 years old. However, Wimbledon has been a favorable venue for her, with two previous appearances in the fourth round, and she's once again looking to reach the second week of the tournament.

The British No. 1 boasts a more-than-decent 9-3 record at Wimbledon, and with newfound confidence this week, she will try to pose a challenge to Sabalenka. Neither player has dropped a set yet, although the Belarusian's stellar year makes her the overwhelming favorite for the victory.

Former Wimbledon champion Lindsay Davenport believes Raducanu should take advantage of the pressure being on her opponent and play aggressively, recognizing that the responsibility lies elsewhere. "I think Sabalenka judges herself on Grand Slam titles, and for Sabalenka to get now to the third major of the year, have chances in the first two final losses,” Davenport stated. “Close matches in both of them and to not have one. I think she's probably feeling a little bit of self-imposed pressure to win here at Wimbledon."

Davenport advised Raducanu's strategy: "She's got to wait for her chances if she gets some chances on second serve, she's got to go hard middle. And when she's got a little bit of time, that's when she goes to the wings. She can't afford to go off the court too soft because then you open up the angle for Sabalenka."

Raducanu and Sabalenka will face off in the night session this Friday on Centre Court, where Raducanu will aim to join Sonay Kartal as the only remaining local players in the third round of the women's draw. Currently, the head-to-head favors the Belarusian 1-0, with their sole previous encounter at Indian Wells 2024.