**Mimi Xu Aims High at Junior Wimbledon with Insight from Emma Raducanu**
Rising British tennis talent Mimi Xu is drawing both inspiration and practical advice from Grand Slam winner Emma Raducanu, as she continues her impressive run at Junior Wimbledon this week. The 17-year-old from Swansea has confidently secured her place in the third round of the girls’ singles, cruising past 12th seed Alena Kovackova with a decisive 6-1, 6-2 victory.
Xu’s path to this point in the tournament has been shaped by her recent experience against Raducanu herself. The two met in the first round of the senior draw at the All England Club, with Raducanu emerging victorious 6-3, 6-3 on Court 1. While the result was not in Xu’s favour, she seized the opportunity to seek advice from the British No.1 during their post-match cooldown. Their shared Chinese roots have also fostered a personal connection—Raducanu often converses with Xu’s mother in Mandarin when they train at the National Tennis Centre, adding another dimension to their compatriot relationship.
Recalling Raducanu’s 2021 US Open triumph, Xu reflected on how moments like that continue to motivate young British players. “After our match, Emma gave me advice and was really supportive,” Xu revealed. “She pointed out areas I could improve, was super friendly and told me how important it is to keep working hard. Watching her win in New York was a huge inspiration—everyone was gathered around the TV to see it happen.”
The guidance seems to be paying dividends. After a tough opening contest where Xu had to claw back from a set down to overcome American Thea Frodin (2-6, 6-4, 7-5), she found her range in her clash with Kovackova. Dominating from the outset on Court 12, Xu booked her place in the last 16 in just 53 minutes, a display of assertive and attacking tennis that showcased her growing confidence at this level.
Next up for Xu is a meeting with Australia’s Tahlia Kokkinis, who ousted another British hopeful, Daniella Britton, in straight sets. Xu is relishing the prospect and keen to maintain her momentum, noting the advantage of playing in front of a supportive British crowd. “I’ve probably played on these courts more than most,” she said with a smile. “Playing against the seniors last week was perfect preparation. The energy from the home supporters really spurred me on today. The stands were packed, and it made a real difference.”
It’s clear that for Xu, gradual progress and learning from the best are key themes. She remains focused on taking each match as it comes, stating: “It’s just one game at a time for me. Having the crowd behind me is fantastic, and if I can keep harnessing that, anything is possible.”
As excitement grows around British prospects at SW19, Xu’s blend of determination, raw talent and eagerness to learn from her peers sets her apart in the junior field. Her journey through Junior Wimbledon comes as the latest promising sign for British tennis, as the search continues for the next big breakthrough star to follow in Raducanu’s footsteps.
With each match, Xu continues to capture attention—not only for her results, but for her maturity in seeking advice and reflecting candidly on both challenges and successes. As she readies herself for her next contest, a spirited performance in front of her home fans could help turn her Wimbledon dream into reality.
Tennis enthusiasts and followers of the British summer grass court season can access the latest updates through the Lawn Tennis Association’s official channels. Xu’s progress will undoubtedly draw further interest as she pushes forward at this year’s Junior Wimbledon, aiming to make lasting memories at the tournament that has inspired generations.