Emma Raducanu Embraces Home Support and Applauds Jack Draper’s Tennis Prowess
Emma Raducanu has expressed her gratitude for the passionate home crowd at the Queen’s Club Championships, as she advances through the women’s singles quarter-finals and looks ahead to the summer’s tennis calendar. The British tennis star, who has been enjoying a strong run following a wildcard entry, has openly voiced her appreciation for both the warm reception she’s received at Queen’s and the efforts of her compatriots, with particular praise measured for fellow Briton Jack Draper.
This week marks an historic return for women’s tennis at the Queen’s Club tournament, the first time in over fifty years the event has featured a female draw. Raducanu, currently ranked 37th in the world, has navigated her way through to the last eight, defeating Spain’s Cristina Bucsa and Rebecca Sramkova of Slovakia on her way. She now faces a formidable challenge against Chinese number one seed Zheng Qinwen in Friday’s quarter-final, with hopes of booking a coveted place in the semi-finals.
Raducanu stands as the last British woman left in the draw, following the departures of compatriots Katie Boulter and Heather Watson. Speaking after her recent victories, she highlighted how the audience’s energy has contributed to her performances. “The crowd here has been phenomenal. Whether in singles or doubles, the stands are always full, even on the bigger courts,” the 2021 US Open champion shared. “There’s a special feeling playing here on home soil, with so much support from British fans. It’s wonderful to see the women’s event commissioned at such a historic venue, and I’m just delighted to be part of it.”
The level of local support appears to be having a positive effect on Raducanu’s mindset, particularly amid the pressures that come with being the nation’s top hope. She described the experience as uplifting and motivating, especially as she progresses into the latter stages of high-profile tournaments.
Attention will soon turn to the men’s side of the Queen’s Club tournament, where Jack Draper is set to join the fray. Draper, now holding the world number six spot and carrying the honour of being top-ranked among British men, is preparing for a demanding summer with Wimbledon fast approaching.
Raducanu, who counts Draper among her friends on the circuit, spoke highly of his ability to shut out distractions and perform on court. “Jack is not only an outstanding competitor but also a remarkable tennis player. When he steps onto the court, his focus is incredible—he tunes out the noise and deals with the expectations exceptionally well,” she observed. “I have every confidence that he’ll handle the challenges ahead.”
Despite her own mixed feelings about her recent performances—admitting her straight-sets win over Sramkova wasn’t her “cleanest”—Raducanu remains upbeat. “I’m just happy I managed to come through some tight moments,” she commented post-match. “The support from the crowd made all the difference, especially when my opponent started to come back. I tried to stay composed and build a lead from the start.”
Raducanu’s return to form at Queen’s could not have come at a better time, as conversations begin to intensify regarding British hopes for Wimbledon. With several established names knocked out early and fresh talent stepping up, the landscape is once again open for emerging players such as Raducanu and Draper.
In what has already been a tournament to remember, Raducanu’s determination—to draw energy from local fans, push through tough matches, and encourage her peers—has provided a bright spark for British tennis. As both she and Draper prepare for further challenges, the eyes of the home crowd remain firmly fixed on their progress, hoping for a thrilling run at Wimbledon later this month.
As this new chapter for women at Queen’s Club unfolds, both players and supporters alike will be watching closely, keen for more moments of sporting brilliance on British grass courts this summer.