“I am looking forward to 2025 regardless,” Emma Raducanu stated, in response to speculation surrounding team expansion for her upcoming season. Tennis community buzzing with news of Raducanu potentially joining fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura; such reports prompted ex-British tennis stars Laura Robson and Tim Henman highlighting its beneficial impact upon Raducanu who has experienced difficulties throughout her season.
Emma Raducanu had an up and down 2024 season, participating in 14 tournaments but only playing 31 matches across them all. Though reaching Wimbledon Round 16 and Rothesay Open Semis she struggled to maintain consistency; therefore the potential collaboration with Nakamura who boasts such an impressive track record with athletes across various sports is seen as essential in improving her game and further developing it.
Nakamura’s expertise and his history of success with athletes like Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka have made him a coveted addition to any athlete’s team. Robson praised him for being world-class and highlighted the positive dynamic he could bring to Raducanu’s team. Henman also emphasized the need for Raducanu to build physical resilience, considering her history of injuries and the physically demanding nature of the tennis tour.
Despite a challenging season, Raducanu managed to finish within the top 60, a feat that surprised Henman and showcased her potential. The addition of Nakamura could provide Raducanu with the physical training and injury prevention strategies needed to compete more consistently and avoid the injury setbacks that have hindered her career since her Grand Slam victory.
Raducanu has endured injuries, such as wrist surgeries and an ankle issue, since her breakthrough win. Most recently, her withdrawal from Korea Open due to ligament tears made it evidently necessary that a strong support team be put in place around her. For 2019, her goal remains clear – break out from this cycle of injury-recovery!
As excitement builds for 2025’s season, tennis enthusiasts around the globe await with baited breath to see whether this possible new partnership between Emma Raducanu and Stefanie Voegeli can regain her position atop WTA rankings and add additional Grand Slam victories to her resume.