Emma Raducanu pens cryptic two-word TV message after sealing Pegula comeback

Emma Raducanu has promised fans a ‘new start’ after continuing her run at Eastbourne. The former US Open champion came from a set down to defeat Jessica Pegula on the south coast.

Raducanu started her grass-court preparation early ahead of Wimbledon this year and appears to be seeing the benefits. She sealed a fantastic victory over world No. 5 Pegula on Wednesday, winning 4-6 7-6 7-5.

The triumph followed a strong display against Sloane Stephens in the first round at Eastbourne, winning 6-4 6-0.

After beating Pegula, Raducanu wrote a hugely positive message on the camera to inform fans of her renewed mentality. The 21-year-old, who has endured a tough two years and underwent surgery on both of her wrists and ankle last year, wrote: “New start.”

“I am pretty drained right now,” Raducanu admitted after the gruelling contest. “It is incredibly difficult to play someone who is so in-form like Jessica off the back of a great run in Berlin.

“I am pleased with the way I was able to navigate my way out of difficult situations. I didn’t know if I could. I would say this is one of the most meaningful wins for me. I have been through some stuff. To come through is really nice.”

Raducanu is into the quarter-final alongside Katie Boulter and Harriet Dart. It is the first time three British women have been in the last-eight at Eastbourne since 1978.

She continued: “I think it is really good, healthy competition. We all see each other progressing into the next round and we want to join them. That is how it should be.

“We are all pushing each other. We all come alive on this surface. It is testament to how hard we are all working. Contrary to some beliefs about us, I think we are all doing a good job.”

Raducanu will face Daria Kasatkina in the quarter-final. Her run will give her renewed confidence ahead of her first Wimbledon campaign since 2022.