Raducanu edged Sabalenka in Cincinnati

Britain's Emma Raducanu pushes world number one Aryna Sabalenka but falls short in a three-set Cincinnati Open thriller.

Raducanu edged out by Sabalenka in Cincinnati Open clash

Emma Raducanu, 22, pushed world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to the limit in a marathon Cincinnati Open match that stretched over three hours. Sabalenka, defending champion, edged Raducanu 7-6 (7-3) 4-6 7-6 (7-5) in a contest that showcased high-level rallies and mental stamina on a demanding hard court.

Raducanu’s performance reinforces a clear narrative: her revival is ongoing, not piecemeal. The fight against Sabalenka, a top opponent and reigning champion, suggests her fitness issues are behind her and that she can sustain pressure in big moments. The next test is consistency across a season, particularly at the US Open where a strong seed could shape her draw. This match hints at a broader trend of gradual improvement, resilience under pressure, and a willingness to challenge the very best in the sport.

Highlights

The road ahead is long, but the progress is tangible and worth watching.