Emma Raducanu delivered a remarkable performance to upset American eighth seed Emma Navarro 7-6 (8-6), 2-6, 7-6 (7-3) in a thrilling second-round clash at the Miami Open on Friday.
Raducanu, who recently ended her brief trial with coach Vladimir Platenik after just two weeks, had cruised past Sayaka Ishii in her opening match on Wednesday. This victory came after a disappointing first-round exit at Indian Wells earlier this month.
Before facing Navarro, Raducanu was spotted practicing with Mark Petchey, former coach of Andy Murray. Despite taking a medical timeout for blisters before the final set and nearly falling 4-1 behind, the 22-year-old found a second wind, winning four consecutive games. Although she struggled to serve out the match, Raducanu’s resilience pushed the contest into a deciding tie-break, where she dominated to secure her first top-10 win on a hardcourt.
Raducanu started strong, firing clean shots against Navarro, a US Open semi-finalist. After saving two set points in the opening set’s tie-break, she claimed the lead, showcasing a resurgence in her form. However, Navarro fought back to level the match before Raducanu regained control.
Jamie Delgado, currently coaching Grigor Dimitrov, spoke about Raducanu’s coaching situation. After parting ways with Platenik, she has been supported by mentor Jane O’Donoghue and LTA coach Colin Beecher. Delgado acknowledged the challenge of changing coaches mid-tournament but noted that Petchey’s familiarity with Raducanu could help rebuild her confidence.
“She’s got people around her she trusts and has played well with before, so that can spread confidence,” Delgado said. “For now, she needs someone consistent and familiar for the long term, but having Mark in the short term might help her this week.”
Raducanu’s impressive victory over Navarro marks a significant step in her journey to regain top form, offering hope for further success in the Miami Open.
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