Rybakina Achieves First US Open Fourth-Round Appearance with Victory Over Raducanu

Elena Rybakina, seeded ninth, delivered a commanding performance to halt Emma Raducanu’s US Open journey, securing her inaugural fourth-round spot with a decisive 6-1, 6-2 triumph on Friday.

The 2022 Wimbledon victor, who previously defeated Raducanu in their sole encounter in 2022, initiated strong starts in both sets and maintained composure, clinching the win in 62 minutes.

“I am very pleased with my level of play. It is never an easy task when competing against Emma,” Rybakina commented. “The score may not reflect it, but she poses a significant challenge. I am satisfied with my current form and anticipate my next match.”

Rybakina immediately asserted her dominance, securing an early break of serve in the opening game with impressive returns and solidifying her advantage with her powerful serve. She swiftly established a 3-0 lead, consistently applying pressure on Raducanu with her impactful ball-striking.

Raducanu, who navigated her initial two US Open matches without conceding a single service game, encountered difficulties due to a series of errors and struggled to find solutions as Rybakina secured the set.

The subsequent set mirrored a similar pattern. Raducanu’s opening service game slipped away because of additional mistakes, and Rybakina capitalized by holding serve to consolidate her lead.

Although Rybakina landed 47% of her initial serves, Raducanu could not capitalize on the second serve. The 22-year-old momentarily excited the crowd by defending against two break opportunities, drawing cheers of support.

However, this reprieve was momentary, as Rybakina skillfully maneuvered her across the court before concluding the rally with an unreachable forehand winner, securing another break as Raducanu displayed her dismay by striking her racquet.

Rybakina then progressed further with an ace and sealed the match on the subsequent point as Raducanu’s shot sailed long.

This defeat concluded Raducanu’s most encouraging showing at Flushing Meadows since her unexpected title victory in New York four years prior as a qualifier.

Rybakina’s next opponent will be either Marketa Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, or Jasmine Paolini, the seventh-seeded Italian player.

“It is true that the U.S. Open has presented challenges in recent years, and I have not achieved great success,” Rybakina added.

“I am hopeful that this year will be different. I am delighted to progress and aspire to advance as far as possible.”