Disappointed Emma Raducanu Crashes Out to Anisimova

Emma Raducanu suffered a disappointing straight-sets defeat to Amanda Anisimova at the Canadian Open in Montreal. The British number one lost 6-2, 6-1 to the American fifth seed in their third-round encounter. The defeat ended Emma Raducanu’s promising run in the WTA 1000 tournament after consecutive victories in the opening rounds.

Anisimova Dominates Third-Round Encounter

Emma Raducanu struggled from the opening games against the Wimbledon finalist at Court Central in Montreal. Anisimova broke the Brit’s serve early and maintained control throughout the 64-minute encounter. The American converted five of seven break point opportunities whilst losing her own serve just once.

The 22-year-old Emma Raducanu held serve only twice during the entire match, highlighting her serving difficulties. She won just 29% of points on her first serve compared to Anisimova’s impressive 71%. The statistics demonstrated the gulf in performance between the two players on Thursday evening.

Emma Raducanu had previously defeated Anisimova in both their previous meetings, including at this year’s Australian Open. However, the American reversed their head-to-head record emphatically with her dominant display. The victory marked Anisimova’s 50th career WTA 1000 match win.

Previous Strong Form in North America

Emma Raducanu had been building momentum during the North American hard court season before this setback. She reached the semi-finals at the Washington Open last week, defeating Naomi Osaka along the way. The Brit also secured consecutive victories over Elena-Gabriela Ruse and Peyton Stearns in Montreal.

Her recent performances had elevated Emma Raducanu to world number 33, her highest ranking since 2022. The 2021 US Open champion had won five of her last six matches entering the Anisimova encounter. Tennis analysts praised her improved consistency and aggressive playing style.

The Canadian-born Emma Raducanu expressed particular motivation for performing well in Montreal during pre-tournament interviews. She acknowledged the special significance of competing successfully in her birth country. The early exit will undoubtedly disappoint the British star ahead of the US Open.

Serving Struggles Prove Costly

Emma Raducanu struggled significantly with her serve throughout the match against Anisimova. She committed four double faults whilst landing only 50% of first serves. The British player faced constant pressure on her service games, defending multiple break points.

Her second serve became particularly vulnerable, winning just 25% of points when required. Emma Raducanu couldn’t establish any rhythm or confidence with her serving motion. The lack of free points from serve allowed Anisimova to dictate rallies consistently.

Tennis experts highlighted Emma Raducanu’s serving difficulties as the primary factor in her defeat. Former British number one Barry Cowan noted her inconsistent ball toss and rushed service motion. The technical issues prevented her from competing effectively against Anisimova’s aggressive return game.

Ranking Implications and US Open Preparation

Emma Raducanu will likely drop several ranking places following her early Montreal exit. She entered the tournament ranked 33rd but faces potential slippage without significant points earned. The defeat complicates her seeding prospects for the upcoming US Open in New York.

Her current ranking represents significant progress from her 2023 low of world number 285. Raducanu has climbed steadily through consistent performances and improved fitness levels. However, maintaining top-32 seeding for Grand Slams requires regular deep runs in significant tournaments.

The British star still has opportunities to improve her ranking before the US Open. Raducanu will compete at the Cincinnati Open next week, providing another chance for valuable points. Her 2021 US Open triumph remains her career highlight and biggest ranking boost.

Coach Petchey’s Assessment

Mark Petchey, Emma Raducanu’s current coach, acknowledged the disappointing result whilst maintaining optimism. He praised her recent improvements in fitness and court movement during the North American swing. Petchey emphasised the need for patience during her ranking recovery process.

The former British number one highlighted Emma Raducanu’s positive mindset despite the setback. Petchey noted her professional approach to analysing match footage and identifying improvement areas. Their coaching partnership has produced encouraging results since beginning in March.

Emma Raducanu and Petchey will focus on serve improvements before Cincinnati and the US Open. The coach identified technical adjustments needed for greater consistency under pressure. Their training partnership continues on an informal basis rather than full-time arrangement.

British Tennis Reaction

Tennis commentators expressed disappointment at Emma Raducanu’s early Canadian Open exit. BBC Sport analysts had predicted a potential quarter-final run based on her recent form. The defeat highlighted the challenging nature of WTA 1000 competition levels.

Former British Fed Cup captain Anne Keothavong praised Emma Raducanu’s fighting spirit despite the loss. She emphasised the positive aspects of reaching the third round in Montreal. Keothavong noted the importance of consistent tournament participation for ranking progress.

British tennis fans on social media showed continued support for Emma Raducanu following the defeat. Many highlighted her young age and potential for future improvement. The loyal fanbase remains optimistic about her US Open prospects later this month.

Anisimova’s Impressive Performance

Amanda Anisimova’s victory over Emma Raducanu continued her excellent 2025 season form. The American reached the Wimbledon final in July before losing to Iga Swiatek. Her aggressive baseline game proved too powerful for the British player in Montreal.

The 23-year-old American has struggled with consistency throughout her career but appears to be finding form. Emma Raducanu became her latest notable scalp following victories over other seeded players. Anisimova’s confidence levels appear significantly improved since her Wimbledon breakthrough.

Her dominant performance against Emma Raducanu showcased improved court coverage and shot selection. Tennis analysts noted Anisimova’s patience in constructing points rather than rushing for winners. The tactical maturity suggests continued success at the highest level.

Looking Ahead to Cincinnati

Emma Raducanu will attempt to bounce back quickly at next week’s Cincinnati Open. The WTA 1000 tournament provides another opportunity for ranking points before the US Open. She has previously enjoyed success on American hard courts throughout her career.

The British star will benefit from additional match practice before defending US Open points. Emma Raducanu faces significant pressure to perform well at Flushing Meadows in three weeks. Her 2021 triumph earned substantial ranking points that expire this September.

Mental resilience will prove crucial for Emma Raducanu following the Montreal disappointment. Sports psychologists emphasise the importance of learning from defeats rather than dwelling on results. Her young age provides time for continued development and improvement.

Career Development Perspective

Emma Raducanu’s defeat to Anisimova represents a learning experience rather than major setback. Tennis experts note the normal fluctuations in form during ranking recovery processes. Her overall 2025 season shows significant improvement compared to previous years.

The British star has demonstrated greater physical resilience through extended tournament schedules. Emma Raducanu completed consecutive weeks of competition without injury concerns. This durability marks major progress from her injury-plagued 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Long-term development remains positive despite individual match disappointments for Emma Raducanu. Her team continues building sustainable success rather than seeking quick ranking gains. The methodical approach should yield consistent results over time.