Emma Raducanu has reached her first final since the 2021 US Open after defeating Oleksandra Oliynykova 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 in the semi-finals of the Transylvania Open in Cluj. The British No 1 will face Sorana Cirstea in Saturday's final, with a chance to win her first title since her remarkable triumph at Flushing Meadows.
The match was a gruelling three-hour battle, with Raducanu left physically shattered by Oliynykova's frustrating tactics, including heavy use of moon balls and slices. Raducanu showed resilience, coming from a 2-1 deficit in the deciding set to win 16 consecutive points and eventually seal victory after missing two match points on her opponent's serve.
Raducanu praised her opponent, saying, 'All props to my opponent today. She played incredible, makes it so tricky to put any ball past her.' The Briton added that she was most proud of how she competed and managed the match, crediting the crowd for their support.
In other news, Katie Boulter also reached the final of the Ostrava Open, beating Katie Volynets 6-1, 6-3. Boulter, ranked 120th in the world, will play in her fifth WTA final. This marks the first time two British women will compete in different WTA Tour finals on the same day.
