Raducanu Advances At Italian Open Beats Kudermetova Sets Up Gauff

Emma Raducanu staged a significant comeback to defeat Veronika Kudermetova 5-7, 6-0, 6-1 in the third round of the Italian Open, demonstrating resilience after serving for the first set and losing it. Raducanu, who has shown improved variety in her shots and confidence on clay, will face former US Open champion Coco Gauff in the round of 16, marking a challenging next match. Raducanu's performance in Rome, including previous wins over Maya Joint and Jil Teichmann, signals positive momentum ahead of the French Open later this month. Kudermetova, a former top 10 player with strong clay credentials, had not dropped a set prior to her loss against Raducanu, adding to the significance of the victory. This meeting marked their first encounter on the WTA Tour. Raducanu acknowledged the pressure she felt but emphasized her ability to maintain composure and not let the match slip away after the first set.