Emma Raducanu believes that she has nothing to lose ahead of her last-16 match against Ons Jabeur at the Abu Dhabi Open, live on Sky Sports, on Wednesday afternoon.
Former US Open champion Raducanu got off to a winning start in her first-round match in Abu Dhabi, beating world No 26 Marie Bouzkova 6-4 6-1.
She will now face second seed Jabeur on Wednesday, in their first WTA Tour meeting, in her quest for a quarter-final place.
The match is scheduled fourth on the main court, with the day’s play beginning at 9am UK time, so Raducanu and Jabeur are expected to walk out on court at approximately 3pm – live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Arena.
Emma Raducanu was complimentary of the Tunisian world No 6 and highlighted the personal influence she has had on her professional tennis career so far.
“She’s definitely the home favourite here, rightfully so,” said Raducanu.
“I really like Ons, she’s someone who’s kind of taken me under her wing as I’ve been new to the tour.
“I’m really looking forward to it because a lot of people were saying to me [during first-round match], ‘Oh, Ons, Ons, Ons!’ And I was like, ‘I’m playing Marie who’s ranked like 30 in the world, so that’s not an easy match!’
“But I’m really pleased to have put myself in this situation, and I’m going out with nothing to lose against her.”
Emma Raducanu is still building her match fitness as she recovers from injuries which curtailed her 2023 season.
Against Bouzkova she won 10 of the last 11 games to claim victory and progress in Abu Dhabi.
“(Bouzkova) was a very difficult opponent,” added Raducanu.
“Marie is really tough to put the ball away against, she makes so many balls, so I’m really pleased to come through that.
“I took a little bit to get adjusted to the speed of her ball and the court and the conditions playing at night, but I’m really happy with the way I kind of calibrated.”
