Emma Raducanu’s 6-2, 6-1 win over Janice Tjen was a masterclass in the art of the tactical takedown. Rather than simply overpowering her opponent, the British star executed a shrewd and intelligent game plan to dismantle the unique style of the Indonesian qualifier.
The plan revolved around neutralizing Tjen’s primary weapons. Recognizing the danger of Tjen’s Ash Barty-esque game, Raducanu used her serve to prevent Tjen from getting into points. When in a rally, she systematically broke down Tjen’s tricky backhand slice with a barrage of heavy, deep cross-court backhands, never allowing Tjen to control the point with her variety.
This tactical approach showed Raducanu’s high tennis IQ. She didn’t just play her own game; she actively worked to deconstruct her opponent’s. This ability to think her way through a match, to identify weaknesses and exploit them, is a hallmark of a truly elite player.
While her power was impressive, it was her strategy that won her the match. This artful takedown is a promising sign for Raducanu’s future opponents. It shows she has multiple ways to win matches, combining brute force with brilliant tactics to create a formidable package.