Emma Raducanu ended Great Britain’s 44-year old wait to become women’s Grand Slam singles champion.
The 18-year old defeated the 19-year old Leylah Fernandez 6-4, 6-3 in a match that lasted 1 hour and 53 minutes. This was the Briton’s first Grand Slam win.
Emma Raducanu who is ranked as No.150 had to go through three rounds of qualifying in order to qualify for the US Opens.
Raducanu also became the youngest Grand Slam champion since 17-year-old Maria Sharapova’s triumph at Wimbledon in 2004. The last time British women won the title was back in 1977 when Virginia Wade won the US Open. Virginia was also present Arthur Ashe Stadium to support her fellow countrymen.
The 18-year old also received a congratulatory message from Queen Elizabeth II.
'I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent Leylah Fernandez, will inspire the next generation of tennis players.'
Read The Queen's message to @EmmaRaducanu in full: https://t.co/m5lxaH7kKi pic.twitter.com/aFSaCisDC0
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 11, 2021
“I send my congratulations to you on your success,” the Queen said.
“It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is a testament to your hard work and dedication.”
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also congratulated Emma on her spectacular victory.
What a sensational match! Huge congratulations to @EmmaRaducanu 🇬🇧
You showed extraordinary skill, poise and guts and we are all hugely proud of you.#USOpen
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) September 11, 2021
“What a sensational match! Huge congratulations to Emma Raducanu.You showed extraordinary skill, poise and guts and we are all hugely proud of you.” Johnson tweeted.
Emma Raducanu wants to chase greatness
During the on-court ceremony, Raducanu said that every player has the chance to win a great slam if they put in the effort.
“I think this final shows that the future of women’s tennis and just the depth of the game right now is so great,” Raducanu said during the on-court ceremony. “I think every single player in the women’s draw definitely has a shot to win any tournament. I hope that the next generation can follow in the steps of the greatest legends—like Billie Jean King—and everyone who is at the top of the game right now.”
