Emma Raducanu has reason to be upbeat despite Anna Kalinskaya defeat

Emma Raducanu may have suffered a hard-fought loss to Anna Kalinskaya in the latest round of the 2025 Canadian Open (National Bank Open), but the British star has every reason to remain upbeat about her performance and future prospects. The former US Open champion fell in a close three-set battle, but her display on court showed significant improvements that fans and analysts have been eager to see.

Raducanu’s 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(5) defeat marked another step forward in her journey back to top-level competition. While the result didn’t go in her favor, her movement, shot selection, and fighting spirit were evident throughout the match. The match showcased long rallies and tense baseline exchanges, with Raducanu pushing Kalinskaya to her limits before narrowly falling short in the deciding tiebreak.

Coming into the match, Raducanu was under scrutiny following a turbulent 2024 season filled with injury setbacks and inconsistent results. However, her performance against a tough opponent like Kalinskaya proved that the British star is regaining her rhythm and confidence on court.

“Of course, I’m disappointed with the result, but I’m taking a lot of positives from the match,” Raducanu said in her post-match interview. “I feel like my level is improving with each tournament, and I’m competing better physically and mentally.”

Her resilience and improved fitness were clear, as she battled for over two and a half hours in humid Montreal conditions. The ability to stay in long, grueling matches without signs of physical discomfort is a promising sign for Raducanu, whose career has often been hampered by injuries.

Raducanu’s team is also optimistic about her steady progress. With the US Open approaching, these competitive matches are crucial for building match sharpness and mental toughness. Despite the loss, her performance is seen as a vital step in her long-term comeback plan.

Off the court, Raducanu’s global fanbase continues to grow, and her positive mindset amidst challenges is winning admiration from fans and fellow players alike.

While the defeat to Kalinskaya may sting, Raducanu’s upward trajectory is clear. If she continues to build on these performances, it won’t be long before the British star is back competing deep into the latter stages of major tournaments once again.