Raducanu Reaches Washington Open Semi-Finals, Becomes British No. 1

Emma Raducanu secured her place in the semi-finals of the Washington Open for the first time with a hard-fought 6-4, 7-5 victory over Maria Sakkari, overcoming a 5-2 deficit in the second set and battling intense heat conditions. This win will elevate Raducanu to British number one, surpassing Katie Boulter, and marks a significant step in her career resurgence since her 2021 US Open triumph. Raducanu credited her growing confidence to the extensive work behind the scenes and highlighted the physical and mental challenges posed by the match's demanding conditions, including a medical timeout for heat-related issues. She will face either Clara Tauson or Anna Kalinskaya in the semi-finals and also remains in contention in the women's doubles event. The victory signals her improved stamina and resilience, suggesting she is now better equipped for the rigors of the tour and poised to contend for more titles. Observers note that this progress could lead to a seeding at the upcoming US Open and potentially herald a return to her championship form.