Wimbledon 2024: Emma Raducanu ready to “risk everything” on Wednesday

Emma Raducanu has vowed to “give it her all” on Wednesday when she faces Belgian Elise Mertens in the second round of Wimbledon.

Raducanu, 21, skipped the clay courts at Roland Garros to focus on her fitness and preparation for the British grass court season and, so far, the decision appears to have paid off.

The Briton reached the semi-finals of the Nottingham Open and then reached the quarter-finals in Eastbourne, including a win over American world number five Jessica Pegula.

She was due to open her Wimbledon campaign against No. 22 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova, but the Russian withdrew on Monday morning.

Instead, Raducanu faced lucky loser Renata Zarazua and, after struggling through the first set, really found her rhythm in the second to reach the second round with a 7-6 (7-0) 6-3 victory on Centre Court.

Raducanu has appeared in six Grand Slam events since winning the US Open title in 2021 but has failed to advance beyond the second round.

“In terms of results, I have no expectations,” said Raducanu, who has endured a difficult few years due to wrist and ankle injuries.

“I just expect myself to give my all on the pitch and fight without letting any frustration get to me.”

Raducanu will face her last opponent on Court 1 on Wednesday against Mertens, the 2018 Australian Open semi-finalist.