Raducanu Rallies Past Stearns, Advances to Korean Open Round of 16
Seoul, South Korea - Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, showcased her resilience and fighting spirit in a hard-fought victory over American qualifier, Alycia Stearns, at the Korean Open on Wednesday. The British star, seeded third in the tournament, ultimately prevailed 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-2, securing a spot in the round of 16.
The match began with both players displaying impressive shot-making and aggressive returns. The first set proved to be a tight battle, with Stearns demonstrating an unyielding tenacity, challenging Raducanu's serve and returning with impressive depth. Raducanu, despite facing some initial challenges, was able to secure an early break and establish a 4-2 lead. However, Stearns clawed her way back, breaking Raducanu's serve in the eighth game and eventually forcing a tiebreaker. In a tense tiebreaker, Stearns emerged victorious, claiming the first set after a back-and-forth exchange.
The second set saw Raducanu elevate her game, demonstrating greater control and consistency on her serves and returns. She broke Stearns in the first game and quickly built momentum, winning five straight games to take a commanding lead. Her aggressive baseline play and precise groundstrokes proved too much for Stearns, who struggled to maintain her momentum from the first set.
Raducanu carried this momentum into the third set, breaking Stearns early and maintaining a strong lead throughout. The British star's powerful forehand and effective drop shots kept Stearns on the defensive, preventing her from mounting any serious comeback attempt. Raducanu ultimately closed out the match in convincing fashion, securing her spot in the next round.
"It wasn't an easy match at all," admitted Raducanu after the victory. "Alycia [Stearns] played really well, and it took me a while to find my rhythm. But I am really happy to have won this match and I'm looking forward to the next challenge."
Raducanu's victory in Seoul marks a positive step in her ongoing comeback season. Following a disappointing 2023 Wimbledon campaign, the 20-year-old British star is hoping to regain her form and consistency, aiming to make a strong run in the upcoming tournaments.
Her next opponent in the Korean Open will be the winner of the match between the wildcard entry, Jang Su-jeong, and the eighth-seeded Russian player, Varvara Gracheva. With her resilience and fighting spirit on display, Raducanu will be aiming to continue her momentum and make a deep run in the Korean Open.
