British tennis star Emma Raducanu's quest for a first title on home soil since her historic 2021 US Open victory was thwarted on Sunday as she was defeated by Croatian lucky loser Donna Vekic in the final of the HSBC Championships at Queen's. Raducanu, the British number one, succumbed to a 6-0, 7-6 (6) loss in a match that saw a stark contrast between the two sets.
The opening set proved a challenging start for Raducanu, who was swiftly overcome 6-0 in just over half an hour. Vekic displayed a clinical performance, winning 92 per cent of her first serve points and hitting 13 winners compared to Raducanu's four. The Briton appeared to be managing a left thigh issue, for which she sought a medical time-out during the first set, though her opponent's strong form was undoubtedly a significant factor.
Despite the early setback, Raducanu demonstrated remarkable resilience in the second set, spurred on by an enthusiastic home crowd. She saved three championship points during the set and another in the tie-break, battling to draw the tie-break level at 6-6. However, Vekic ultimately held her nerve, denying Raducanu the opportunity to force a deciding set and securing the title.
Raducanu's journey to the final was particularly demanding, having been forced to play two matches on Saturday due to earlier rain delays. This meant she spent an additional two hours and 19 minutes on court the day prior to the final compared to Vekic, who had a swifter semi-final victory. This gruelling schedule may have contributed to her physical challenges during the final.
This marked Raducanu's third tour-level final and her first on grass, highlighting a promising return to form after a season impacted by post-viral illness. While the trophy drought continues, her fighting spirit and ability to reach a significant final on grass will offer encouragement for the upcoming Wimbledon Championships.
Source: HSBC Championships