Emma Raducanu is poised for what could be her most successful season since her stunning 2021 US Open triumph, thanks to a restorative and cosy autumn spent reconnecting with home in London.
A Wholesome Reset in Bromley
The world number 29, who celebrated her 23rd birthday in November, has spent recent weeks living in her childhood bedroom in Bromley. This period of downtime has been characterised by personal growth and a deliberate step back from the relentless tennis tour. Raducanu has immersed herself in a variety of pursuits, from studying three languages – Spanish, French, and Mandarin – to delving into an art history course.
She has enjoyed the simple pleasures of London life, visiting coffee shops with friends, exploring galleries like the Courtauld Institute, and even adopting a new hairstyle that allows her to travel on the Tube unnoticed. "I really need rest days from my rest days," she recently joked to reporters, highlighting her energetic approach to time off.
Building a Better Base with New Coach
Raducanu's off-season is not solely about relaxation. This month, she will undertake a significant pre-season training block in Barcelona with her coach, Francisco Roig, whom she hired in August. While a foot issue forced her to withdraw from some US exhibition matches, she remains in training. "He wants me to focus a lot more on building a better Emma Raducanu and a better base level," she explained, signalling a focus on long-term development.
The benefits of her London respite are already evident. Raducanu says she feels "over" the stalking ordeal that marred part of her year and is embracing a more open, contented mindset. "I have loved being in Bromley. It reminds me of when I was a kid - same bedroom, same everything," she said, valuing the nostalgia and stability.
Rugby Inspiration and Reconnecting with Friends
Her autumn has also included high-profile sporting connections. In mid-November, Raducanu visited the England rugby team during their training camp. She practiced line-outs, did some kicking practice with Marcus Smith, and delivered a talk about her Grand Slam experience. Her visit seemed to bring good luck, as she later watched from the stands at Twickenham with friend Simone Ashley to see England defeat New Zealand 33-19.
Beyond the spotlight, this extended time in London has been precious for reconnecting with her inner circle. She celebrated her birthday at the famed Spanish restaurant Cambio de Tercio in South Kensington, a favourite haunt of tennis elites, and has enjoyed evening strolls and coffee shop visits with friends, including Jack Coman.
This blend of intellectual stimulation, personal reconnection, and athletic preparation has created a powerful formula. "I’ve learned a lot about myself this year," Raducanu reflected. "A lot of it is spending time studying, nurturing my brain... I feel very content. I’m pleased with the progress I’m making in myself as a person, maturing." This renewed sense of self and purpose sets the stage for a highly anticipated 2025 on the court.
