Emma Raducanu on Tour Loneliness: Struggling Without Friends in the Tennis World
Emma Raducanu Opens Up About Lack of Friendships on the WTA Tour
[Image: Emma Raducanu at a press conference]
Emma Raducanu admits she struggles to form close bonds with fellow players due to the competitive nature of tennis.
Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has revealed she keeps her circle small on the WTA Tour, citing the challenges of balancing competition with friendship. The 22-year-old British star, who made history as the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam at just 18, has faced ups and downs in her career, including injuries, panic attacks, and even a stalking incident in Dubai earlier this year.
At a press conference ahead of her Washington Open clash with Naomi Osaka, Raducanu reflected on her relationships with peers: “It’s very difficult to really open up with players you’re competing against. I have a few friends on tour, but it adds another dimension when you play them.” She emphasized relying on a tight-knit group off-court, stating, “I have really good friends at home I can trust. But competing against someone you’re friends with? That’s harder for me.”
[Image: Raducanu celebrating her 2021 US Open victory]
Raducanu’s sudden rise to fame at the US Open contrasts with Naomi Osaka’s more gradual climb.
Raducanu also noted she had never met Osaka before their Washington match, attributing this to their divergent career paths. While Osaka had already won four Grand Slams by the time Raducanu emerged, the Brit highlighted the stark differences in their trajectories: “When I won the US Open, I came from school, ranked 200th. Naomi was already established. People expected her to win—my win came out of nowhere.” She acknowledged Osaka’s consistency, adding, “She built foundations I didn’t have, which is why she won multiple Slams. I’ve had more dips.”
[Image: Raducanu during a Wimbledon match in 2024]
Raducanu showed promising form at Wimbledon, defeating 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova before falling to Aryna Sabalenka.
Despite her on-court struggles, Raducanu has found strength in her longtime friendships. During Wimbledon, she credited her childhood friends for their unwavering support: “They’ve been my rock. It’s special having them here—it gives me an extra boost.” Among them is Benjamin Heynold, a fellow junior tennis player turned UNC student, who has sparked dating rumors after多次 appearances in her player’s box. Though neither has addressed the speculation, Heynold and his mother have been fixtures at Raducanu’s matches since her US Open triumph.
[Image: Raducanu’s friends cheering at Wimbledon]
Close friends, including childhood companion Benjamin Heynold (front row, far right), have been a constant source of support.
Other key figures in her circle include Ryan Cohen, a Boston-based product manager, and friends like junior doctor Tessa Teo and personal trainer Chelsea Annalls. Raducanu’s reliance on these relationships underscores her preference for trust and familiarity amid the pressures of professional tennis.
As she prepares to face Osaka, Raducanu remains focused on rebuilding her game. Her recent Wimbledon run—highlighted by a victory over reigning champion Marketa Vondrousova—suggests she’s nearing her peak form again. With her loyal team by her side, the Brit aims to turn fleeting brilliance into sustained success.
[Image: Raducanu practicing ahead of the Washington Open]
Raducanu continues to work on her game, aiming for consistency after a turbulent few years.
While rivalries may dominate her tour life, Raducanu’s story remains one of resilience—powered by a small but steadfast support system that keeps her grounded in an unpredictable sport.
