Emma Raducanu beats Sorana Cirstea to reach Queen’s quarter-finals
Emma Raducanu has advanced to the quarter-finals at Queen’s Club after defeating Sorana Cirstea 6-4 6-2 in front of a home crowd on Friday.
The British No 1 secured her second consecutive grass-court victory this week to the delight of a packed Andy Murray Arena.
This impressive straight-sets triumph marks her first victory over a top-20 opponent in more than a year.
She will now face either compatriot Harriet Dart or Kamilla Rakhimova in the last eight later today.
Dominant early start thwarted by comeback
The 2021 US Open champion commenced the match with blistering intensity, utilising ferocious forehands to secure two early breaks.
Having established a commanding 4-0 advantage, she allowed her experienced opponent a route back into the contest through costly unforced errors.
Cirstea capitalised on these mistakes to win three consecutive games, shifting the momentum and pressure back onto the home favourite.
Facing a potential break point at 5-4, the young Briton demonstrated impressive resilience to claim two vital points and seal the hard-fought 50-minute opening set.
Cruising through the second set
Oozing confidence after edging a tight opener, the hometown hero immediately broke serve in the first game of the second set with a glorious deep forehand return.
She maintained complete control throughout the remainder of the match, dictating baseline rallies against the Romanian veteran.
A second crucial break of serve in the fourth game ultimately provided the decisive blow in securing progression.
This welcome return to form provides a significant boost for the British star as she builds vital momentum on the grass.
