Sunday, December 22, 2024

Emma Raducanu: How British tennis star’s 2024 injury comeback has unfolded

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After her BJK Cup experience, an enthused Raducanu immediately started her pre-season programme in London with a new addition to her team.

Renowned trainer Yutaka Nakamura, who previously worked with Maria Sharapova and Osaka, has been enlisted to help make her body more robust.

“I needed a more tailored approach and someone dedicated to me,” said Raducanu, who travels to Brisbane this week to continue preparations before the new season starts on 30 December.

“My athleticism is a big strength that I have nowhere near fulfilled. I think I can become one of the best athletes in tennis.”

Coach Nick Cavaday, her childhood mentor who she reunited with at the start of 2024, will continue his role as part of a tight-knit team.

Particular attention is being paid to turning her serve into a “weapon”.

Lengthening her takeback, having gone to a shorter swing in the summer, has brought more rhythm, consistency and power.

“Yutuka adds another dimension to the way Nick and I work – it has become integrated and connected,” Raducanu added.

“We can already see things that we do in the gym transferring onto the tennis court.

“We’re on a journey of exploration.”

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