US Open: Emma Raducanu Beats Zhang Shuai to Reach Third Round
British teenager Emma Raducanu delivered another impressive display which belied her youth and inexperience as she swept aside China’s Zhang Shuai to reach the US Open third round.
Raducanu won 6-2 6-4 against 32-year-old Zhang, who is ranked 101 places higher than the 18-year-old.
Superior in every department, Raducanu needed one hour and 21 minutes to win.
Next she will face Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo on Saturday for a place in the fourth round.
Following her stunning run to the Wimbledon last 16 as a wildcard, Raducanu is backing up that breakout display in New York.
Raducanu qualified for her first major last week and, unfazed by the magnitude of playing in her first overseas Grand Slam, has continued to create a buzz at Flushing Meadows.
A throng of fans packed once again into court 10 to watch why Raducanu has emerged as Britain’s brightest young talent and the Kent teenager did not disappoint.
After securing victory, Raducanu stayed on court posing for countless selfies with star-struck fans – a gauge of the excitement which surrounded her.
“I love it here. I’m extremely grateful for all the support I’ve been receiving here in the States. Honestly, it’s taken me a bit by surprise,” Raducanu said.
“Of course I really want to connect with the fans because they’re doing so much for me, getting me through some really tight moments.
“Connecting with them, I have so much fun, especially the younger kids. I hope that they can get a little bit inspired.”