The touching reason Emma Raducanu is desperate to perform well at Canadian Open – ‘It means so much’

Emma Raducanu has revealed a deeply personal reason why the Canadian Open holds a special place in her heart and why she is determined to deliver a strong performance at this year’s event. Speaking after her impressive second-round victory, Raducanu shared that her mother’s Canadian roots make the tournament particularly meaningful for her.

Raducanu’s mother, Renee, is originally from Toronto, and Emma has always considered Canada a second home. “This tournament means so much to me because my mum grew up here,” Raducanu said. “I’ve spent a lot of time in Canada visiting family, and to now play a professional tournament here feels like a full-circle moment.”

While Raducanu represents Great Britain on the WTA Tour, she has always embraced her multicultural background, with Romanian and Chinese heritage as well. However, the connection to Canada is unique, as it’s where much of her extended family resides. She admitted that having family members in the stands during her matches in Montreal adds both motivation and emotional weight to her performances.

After a turbulent couple of years following her 2021 US Open triumph, Raducanu is steadily rebuilding her form and confidence. The Canadian Open has offered her an ideal platform to showcase her progress, and she has already made significant strides, advancing to the third round with determined victories.

“It’s not just another tournament for me,” Raducanu explained. “There’s a personal connection that makes me want to give my absolute best. I can feel my family’s support, and that adds an extra layer of meaning every time I step on court here.”

Raducanu’s heartfelt comments have resonated with fans, many of whom admire her openness about the emotional aspects of her career. Her focus at the Canadian Open is not just about rankings or titles, but about honoring her family’s support and making proud memories on Canadian soil.

As she prepares for her upcoming clash against Amanda Anisimova, Raducanu will be hoping that her strong performances continue, driven by both personal motivation and her quest to re-establish herself among the WTA’s top players.