While many of her rivals on the WTA Tour have headed for sun-drenched beaches, British tennis star Emma Raducanu has taken a decidedly different approach to her winter break. The 23-year-old US Open champion has prioritised home comforts, spending her off-season in her childhood bedroom in Bromley, dedicating time to learning new languages and reconnecting with her roots.
Embracing Nostalgia and New Challenges in Bromley
The world number 29 has forgone exotic holidays for the familiar surroundings of her family home. Raducanu, who achieved top A-Level grades, is using the time to intellectually challenge herself, studying both Spanish and French. She has even been setting herself homework and deadlines, a practice she finds nostalgically rewarding.
"I need rest days from my rest days," Raducanu joked about her busy schedule of self-improvement. She explained the mental benefits, stating, "It gives me something to occupy my brain with... I may be prone to overthinking." She has already been practising her new skills with her Spanish coach, Francisco Roig, and her French chiropractor, Jerome Poupel.
Comforts of Home and Creepy Tabloid Encounters
Raducanu's decision to stay put came after a moment of reflection. "I came back home, and I was like, I'm not leaving. I'm just so settled," she shared. The Brit has been savouring quality time with her parents, exploring Bromley's burgeoning speciality coffee scene, and even experiencing the daily commute during rush hour, which she calls her "switch off."
However, her low-key London life was interrupted by an unwelcome tabloid intrusion. Raducanu addressed a rumour about a supposed new boyfriend, which stemmed from a paparazzi photo. The man in question was simply her best friend's brother, with the friend cropped out of the published image. "It was just me and this guy, and I just didn't see the paps. So that's obviously creepy," she said, though she added she now feels secure as "someone's always watching my back."
Looking Ahead with Renewed Contentment
Following this restorative period, Raducanu is now in Barcelona for a pre-season training block with coach Roig. She heads into the 2026 season with a fresh perspective, having navigated a challenging start to 2025. "I think I've learned a lot about myself this year," Raducanu reflected. "It really taught me the strength that I have to pull myself out of it."
Her key to balance has been nurturing her mind through study and learning, a habit that brings her contentment. Grateful for her close friends and family, the Grand Slam champion appears grounded and focused as she prepares to return to the competitive circuit, recharged by a uniquely British off-season.
