Emma Raducanu Battles Past Wang Xinyo in Roland-Garros Opener Post-Medical Break

Emma Raducanu Triumphs in Thrilling First Set at French Open After Medical Scare
By Matthew Lambwell | May 26, 2025 | Roland Garros, Paris

Emma Raducanu kicked off her 2025 French Open campaign with a dramatic first-set victory over China’s Wang Xiangyi, overcoming a mid-set medical timeout to win 7-5 in a tense opener at Roland Garros. The former US Open champion, playing her first match on Parisian clay, showcased resilience and tactical brilliance despite a shaky start.

First Set Drama: Raducanu Edges Ahead

The match began with both players trading breaks of serve, but Raducanu’s composure under pressure proved decisive. After an early exchange of games, the Brit faced a pivotal moment at 5-5, where she called for a medical timeout. A doctor checked her blood pressure and heart rate, later confirming she was fit to continue.

Raducanu fought through a medical timeout to secure the first set. (Photo: Julian Finney/Getty)

Returning to court, Raduxxanu broke Wang’s serve with a series of precise groundstrokes, sealing the set 7-5. "She showed real grit after that timeout," said onlookers, as the Brit converted her third set point with a cross-court winner.

Medical Timeout Raises Concerns

At 5-5, Raducanu’s sudden medical timeout left fans anxious. The 22-year-old appeared to struggle with dizziness, prompting a three-minute assessment. Medics checked her blood pressure and heart rate, but she returned to court determined.

Raducanu received a medical check during the first set. (Photo: EPA)

Despite the interruption, Raducanu’s focus never wavered. "I felt a bit lightheaded, but I knew I had to push through," she later told reporters.

Second Set: Wang Strikes Back

Wang, ranked No. 42, responded strongly in the second set, breaking Raducanu’s serve early to lead 3-1. The Chinese player’s powerful baseline play tested Raducanu’s movement, but the Brit saved three break points in a crucial fifth game to stay in contention.

Key Stats

Aces: Raducanu 3, Wang 2
Break Points Converted: Raducanu 3/7, Wang 2/5
First-Serve Win Rate: Raducanu 72%, Wang 65%

Context: Raducanu’s Clay-Court Form

Raducanu arrived in Paris with renewed confidence after reaching the quarterfinals in Stuttgart. However, a back injury in Strasbourg had raised concerns. "I’ve worked hard to adapt my game for clay," she said pre-match. Her performance today, particularly her ability to outmaneuver Wang in extended rallies, highlighted her progress.

What’s Next?

Raducanu will face either No. 15 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova or qualifier Clara Burel in the second round. With her first Roland Garros win now secured, the Brit aims to build momentum in a wide-open draw.

Live Updates Recap

First Set: Raducanu clinches 7-5 after a medical timeout.
Second Set: Wang fights back to lead 3-1.
Key Moment: Raducanu’s cross-court winner to seal the first set.

Stay tuned for more updates as Raducanu continues her French Open journey.

Raducanu celebrates her first-set victory. (Photo: Reuters)

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