A fired-up Emma Raducanu continued her strong start at Wimbledon as she dominated Elise Mertens in straight sets to reach the third round at the All England Club. The 2021 US Open champion offered No 1 Court spectators a rounded display of crisp hitting from the baseline, controlled aggression at the net and impressive court coverage to dispatch Mertens 6-1 6-2 in just one hour and 15 minutes. She will now face either Arantxa Rus or ninth seed Maria Sakkari for a place in the fourth round, the stage at which she was forced to retire during her match on debut against Ajla Tomljanovic back in 2021.
Raducanu returned to grass for the first time in two years this summer following ankle and wrist surgeries, and admitted this week she has fallen back in love with the game of tennis. As much was evident during an inspired performance to nod towards a deep run in front of her home fans. "It [crowd support] makes me feel unbelievable.
I feel so welcome here. Honestly, Court One is my favourite court!" said Raducanu. Trending "I think I played some really good tennis.
I'm really pleased. I'm over the moon to be playing here and just to extend my stay for one more day. "I'm so grateful for the support.
With the roof closed, it was super loud. I'm so grateful for everyone making a lot of noise. Also See: As it happened on Day 3 at Wimbledon.
.. Wimbledon 2024: Men's singles draw Wimbledon 2024: Women's singles draw Stream live tennis and more with NOW "The most important thing is just con.