Emma Raducanu showcased her exceptional talent by cruising past Belgium’s Elise Mertens to secure her spot in the Wimbledon third round, joining fellow Briton Sonay Kartal.
Raducanu, a former British number one, was granted a wildcard entry following her injury struggles last year. She delivered a confident and clinical performance, winning 6-1 6-2. This marks her first appearance in the third round of a Grand Slam since her remarkable victory at the 2021 US Open as an 18-year-old qualifier.
Raducanu’s impressive win came just hours after 22-year-old qualifier Sonay Kartal achieved the biggest victory of her career. Kartal, ranked 298th in the world, triumphed over France’s Clara Burel in a hard-fought match, winning 6-3 5-7 6-3. Kartal’s win makes her the first home player to reach the Wimbledon third round this year.
Looking ahead, Kartal faces a formidable challenge against US Open champion Coco Gauff, who secured her own place in the third round with a commanding 6-2 6-1 victory over Anca Todoni.
