Emma Raducanu ‘very sorry’ to young US Open fan after outburst at practice session
Emma Raducanu received plenty of support during her practice session
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Emma Raducanu has apologised on social media to a young fan at the US Open after her morning practice session on Thursday.
The former British No 1 is making her return to the US Open this week after missing last year’s event while she recovered from surgery.
She has been out on the practice courts all week in preparation for the start of the Grand Slam, when she will face Sofia Kenin in the first round.
It was only three years ago when Raducanu made history by going all the way as a qualifier to win the US Open title.
Emma Raducanu received plenty of support during her practice session
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She did so at just 18 years old and became an instant worldwide sensation gaining millions of fans and supporters.
Raducanu has also helped inspire a whole new generation of young tennis fans eager to emulate her success.
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It makes Raducanu one of the most popular players for fans to try and catch a glimpse of on the practice courts.
Her latest practice session on Thursday was no exception with fans grouped in to watch the 21-year-old.
And one young girl managed to catch Raducanu’s attention.
The British tennis star was unable to show her appreciation to the young girl after being unable to locate her after the practice session.
Raducanu wasn’t content with leaving it though and was hopeful social media could help her thank the young girl in person.
She wrote: “To the little girl far up in the stands who said I was her favourite player at this mornings practice, I heard you and it made my heart smile.
Emma Raducanu makes her return to the US Open next week
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“I’m very sorry I had to rush off after practice and I couldn’t see you near the court but please forgive me and I hope to find a way to meet you or arrange a signed something or photo.”
Raducanu has risen back up the rankings in recent months with some strong results on grass and most recently at the Citi Open.
But she missed out on valuable ranking point opportunities at the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Masters.
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Emma Raducanu could face Jessica Pegula in the next round
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Raducanu wasn’t given a wildcard for either event, meaning she needed to enter the qualifying rounds in order to make the main draw.
But the Brit opted to focus instead on building up her practice sessions leading up to the US Open.
She has been handed a difficult draw and could face world No 6 Jessica Pegula in the second round.