Raducanu Propels Great Britain Closer to Billie Jean King Cup Semi-Finals

Emma Raducanu secured a pivotal victory for Great Britain in their quest for a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup semi-finals, defeating defending champions Canada. Competing in Malaga, Raducanu, ranked as Britain’s number two, triumphed over Canada’s Rebecca Marino with a commanding 6-0, 7-5 scoreline.

The match marked Raducanu’s second appearance in nearly two months after a foot injury had kept her sidelined. In the first set, the 2021 US Open champion showcased her sharp skillset, overwhelming Marino, who is ranked 103rd in the world. However, the second set proved more challenging as Raducanu’s resilience was tested; she fended off seven break points before breaking Marino’s serve in the 11th game.

“It was an incredibly difficult match because the dynamics were so different in each of the sets,” Raducanu reflected post-match.

Raducanu’s win has placed the British team within reach of the semi-finals. British number one Katie Boulter now has the chance to secure the team’s advancement when she faces Leylah Fernandez later on Sunday. Notably, Raducanu’s Grand Slam breakthrough came when she defeated Fernandez to win the US Open title.

A win by Boulter would propel Anne Keothavong’s squad into the semi-finals of the prestigious women’s team event, dubbed the ‘World Cup of Tennis’. The victor of the tie between Britain and Canada will face Slovakia, who recently defeated 2022 runners-up Australia, in the semi-final scheduled for Tuesday at 11:00 GMT.