[ad_1]
Raducanu, 18, beat Canada’s Leylah Fernandez, 19, in straight sets. The 6-4 6-3 took place in one of the biggest stadiums in the world at Flushing Meadows on Saturday. As an unseeded qualifier, Raducanu won the tournament without dropping a set and became the first British female to win the US Open since Virginia Wade triumphed 53 years ago.
The extraordinary achievement lead to praise from the Royal Family and the Prime Minister.
Queen Elizabeth II said: “I send my congratulations to you on your success in winning the United States Open Tennis Championships.
“It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication.
“I have no doubt your outstanding performance and that of your opponent Leylah Fernandez will inspire the next generation of tennis players.
“I send my warmest wishes to you and your many supporters.”
A tweet from the official account of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge congratulated the teenager and her opponent on their “amazing achievements” at the tournament.
They said: “Huge congratulations Emma Raducanu on your stunning performances and historic Grand Slam victory!
“Incredible – we are all so proud of you.
READ MORE: New Fred West evidence points to 20 ‘forgotten’ victims
Harry Bushnell, who coached Raducanu at Parklangley Club in Beckenham, south-east London, from the age of six to 10, added this new era will be “massive” for British tennis.
He added it could inspire a new generation of younger tennis players.
Mr Bushnell said: “There will be more to come now. I know she is up to it.
“Last night I saw her interviews after the match and she conducted herself incredibly well.
“She was not too emotional and held herself together impeccably.
“When she was parading the trophy after the final, she said herself that she was ready to do anything that is thrown at her.
“While she is only 18, it just feels like she has been here before and she was born to do it.
“I think she is one of those special ones that will handle it and take it all in her stride.”
[ad_2]
