Emma Raducanu delivered a commanding performance at the Washington Open 2025, defeating former world No 1 and four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, to reach the quarter-finals of the tournament.
The 2021 US Open champion, Raducanu, was in top form throughout the match, showcasing sharp groundstrokes and excellent control on her service games. With this win, the 21-year-old is set to overtake Katie Boulter as the new British No 1 in the WTA rankings on Monday.
Raducanu on Course for US Open 2025 Seeding
Raducanu, currently ranked 40th in the world, is also closing in on a seeded spot for the US Open 2025, following consistent results on the North American hard court swing.
In the first round of the Washington Open, she saw off Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk and will now face world No 8 Maria Sakkari in the quarter-finals — a key matchup in her continued climb up the rankings.
Speaking to Sky Sports after her win over Osaka, Raducanu said:
“I thought it was going to be a really difficult match. Naomi’s won four slams, she’s been world No 1, won Masters titles. She’s so dangerous, and on the hard courts, I think she’s particularly comfortable. I knew I was going to have to play well and manage my service games — which I’m really proud of how I did.”
Doubles Success with Elena Rybakina
Alongside singles success, Raducanu has also impressed in doubles. Partnering with Elena Rybakina, the pair defeated Giuliana Olmos and Aldila Sutjiadi to secure a place in the women’s doubles semi-finals. They will face Shuai Zhang and Taylor Townsend next.
Comeback After Wimbledon Setback
Raducanu’s recent run follows a tough third-round exit at Wimbledon 2025, where she narrowly lost to world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka. That defeat briefly pushed her down to 46th in the rankings, but her Washington form has seen her rebound into the WTA top 40.
With momentum now firmly on her side, Emma Raducanu looks poised for a strong showing at the US Open 2025, where she hopes to replicate — or even surpass — her fairy-tale title run in 2021.