Emma Raducanu has risked a backlash by suggesting she prefers the Korea Open to any other tournament - including Wimbledon.
The 21-year-old reached the second round of the competition on Tuesday, beating Peyton Stearns 7-6, 7-6 to go through.
It was Raducanu's first match since her disappointing first round exit at the US Open, with Sofia Kenin getting the better of the 2021 winner last month.
As a Briton, playing at Wimbledon is usually the pinnacle for any player. Especially given the tournament's illustrious history.
Emma Raducanu has risked a backlash by suggesting she prefers the Korea Open to any other tournament - including Wimbledon.
REUTERS
But Raducanu has now risked a backlash by saying the Asian Swing is her favourite time of the year.
“This is my first time playing in the Asian swing, and it is also the time I look forward to the most during the season," she said after her win."
Raducanu has, however, explained her stance.
“It may be because of my birth (Raducanu’s mother is Chinese), but I am especially looking forward to playing in China for the first time.
“Because of the environment I grew up in, the atmosphere here is comfortable, and I think it will be an advantage for me. I want to play as many games as I can.
“Also, I played in the Korea Open for the first time two years ago, and I remember the hospitality I received at that time, and this week is my favourite week of the year.
"I was a little disappointed that I couldn't show you a good game at the time, but I really like Korean food, so I'm enjoying my time in Seoul, eating until I'm sick of it.
“I also like Korean dramas, and I enjoy watching them during my break.
"But the plot always seems similar, so I feel like I already know what's going to happen next.
"Still, they're perfect for killing time.”
With Raducanu opting to play just one hard-court tournament before the US Open, her coach has come under scrutiny.
She insists Nick Cavaday is the right man to lead her, however, and says she's now in the 'best environment' after reuniting with her childhood coach earlier in the year.
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Emma Raducanu was too strong for Peyton Stearns in their clash at the Korea Open
WTA
“The relationship with the coach is very good," he said.
"It's really good to be together. Nick is a competent coach but, more importantly, he is a very good person.
“I think being with a friend I've known for a long time in a familiar environment is the best environment for me right now, and I value the time with him.”
Raducanu will go up against eighth seed Yue Yuan on Thursday with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
Emma Raducanu won her first match since her disappointing exit at the US Open
PA
Yuan was too strong for Elena-Gabriela Ruse on Monday.
The Chinese star won 4-6, 6-2, 6-2 to go through to the round of 16.