Emma Raducanu Exits Wimbledon After Loss to Qualifier Lulu Sun

Emma Raducanu’s Wimbledon journey came to an abrupt end as she was defeated by New Zealand qualifier Lulu Sun in the fourth round. Despite battling through a back injury in the final set, the 21-year-old British wildcard succumbed to a 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 loss in a gripping match on Centre Court.

Raducanu had managed to level the match and boost her confidence after an impressive performance from the spirited Sun. However, an unfortunate slip on the baseline during the first game of the third set exacerbated her condition. The 2021 US Open champion required on-court treatment for her hip and back but continued to play, much to the crowd’s encouragement.

Despite her determination, Raducanu struggled to regain her footing. She was broken twice in the decisive set, with Sun capitalizing on her opponent’s impaired movement. The world number 135 Raducanu missed her chance to advance to her first Wimbledon quarter-final, marking a significant moment for Sun, who had never previously won a main-draw match at a Grand Slam.

Disappointing End for Raducanu

Raducanu’s early exit leaves no British players in the singles draws at the All England Club. Her defeat followed an impressive start to the tournament, where she sailed through her initial matches without dropping a set. However, Sun’s powerful and confident gameplay ultimately disrupted Raducanu’s momentum and disappointed the hopeful home crowd.

Adding to the dismay, Raducanu’s withdrawal from a mixed doubles appearance with Andy Murray, due to wrist stiffness, drew some criticism. The move denied Murray another chance to play at Wimbledon in what could be his farewell tournament.

Sun’s Rising Star

For Lulu Sun, this victory marks a career milestone. Overwhelmed with emotion, the 23-year-old expressed her elation at reaching the Wimbledon quarter-finals in only her second Grand Slam main-draw appearance. Having defeated Chinese eighth seed Zheng Qinwen in the first round, Sun’s remarkable run continues as she prepares to face Croatia’s Donna Vekic for a place in the semi-finals.

Sun’s resilience and tenacity on the court have made her a standout player in this year’s tournament, and her journey forward will be closely watched by tennis enthusiasts worldwide.