‘She definitely changed the game’: Emma Raducanu is preparing to face the ‘inspiring’ Serena Williams on the 23-time Grand Slam champion’s retirement tour, with the duo set to meet in the first round on Monday in Cincinnati
- Emma Raducanu prepares to face Serena Williams on Monday in Cincinnati
- The Brit meets Williams in the first round of the Western and Southern Open
- American Williams, 40, is preparing to retire after 23 Grand Slam titles
- Raducanu spoke positively about Williams, saying it was “amazing” to play her
Serena Williams has long been a name to avoid on tour.
Now the retiring 23-time Grand Slam champion poses a bucket list challenge for anyone who grew up with her.
Those who haven’t yet faced Williams want to take part in their farewell tour, and while the likes of Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff and Ons Jabeur hope for that chance, Emma Raducanu will have it in Cincinnati on Monday.
Emma Raducanu (above) prepares to face 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams
Williams, 40, will retire after the US Open at Flushing Meadows, her home tournament
On one side of the square is a 19-year-old at the start of her career.
On the other hand, a 40-year legend will come to an end. It’s a first meeting, coming days after Williams announced her retirement.
US Open champion Raducanu spoke warmly about the sporting icon ahead of their first-round clash.
“It’s incredible,” said Raducanu, who was seeded 10th at the Western and Southern Open.
Raducanu said: “There has never been anyone who has dominated the women’s game like she has.”
“She has achieved so much. Seeing her in this US swing is really inspiring. She keeps playing because she obviously loves the game.
“That career longevity is something that a lot of players, and myself in particular, aspire to. She definitely changed the game.
“There has never been anyone who has dominated women’s football like she has.”
Williams vs. Raducanu winner will face Victoria Azarenka or Kaia Kanepi.
The winner of the match-up meets Victoria Azarenka or Kaia Kanepi in the second round
After Cincinnati, Williams will turn her attention to the US Open. Flushing Meadows is a fitting setting for a final farewell.
Dan Evan’s impressive run at the National Bank Open was stopped by Pablo Carreno Busta, who defeated the Brit in three sets in Montreal.
The 32-year-old British No. 2 was eventually defeated 7-5 6-7 6-2 in the semifinals.