Emma Raducanu's Strategic Play Against Marketa Vondrousova at Wimbledon

Being Emma Raducanu, particularly at Wimbledon, is never easy. This year, she faces a formidable challenge against the 2023 champion, Marketa Vondrousova, in a tough second-round match. Here’s a breakdown of the strategies Raducanu might employ to secure a victory.

Aggressive Forehand Tactics

Since incorporating Mark Petchey into her coaching team, Raducanu has refined her forehand and serve techniques. Petchey’s technical expertise allows Raducanu to understand the 'why' behind each adjustment, fostering a shared vision for her game. This technical alignment is crucial for her aggressive playstyle.

In her first-round match against Mimi Xu, Raducanu effectively used her forehand to win 50 of the 83 rallies that were four shots or fewer. This aggressive approach requires hitting closer to the sidelines and accepting the risk of more frequent misses. However, the success of the shot must outweigh these misses, embodying a risk-reward strategy.

Baseline Control

Raducanu’s natural aggression as a baseliner is pivotal. She stands further in on the return, maintaining the court position she gains throughout the rally. Against Vondrousova, Raducanu will need to dominate the first strike in the rally. Vondrousova’s left-handed playstyle, characterized by spin and angled shots, makes controlling the baseline even more critical.

Grass-court tennis emphasizes first-strike tennis, especially against players like Vondrousova who dictate early in the rally. Raducanu’s ability to control the baseline will be a determining factor in the match’s outcome.

The Threat Posed by Vondrousova

Marketa Vondrousova, despite her recent struggles with injuries, remains a formidable opponent. Her victory at the grass-court Berlin title last week, defeating top players like Madison Keys and Aryna Sabalenka, underscores her capabilities. Her game, honed on indoor hard courts, translates well to grass, making her a significant threat.

Vondrousova’s lefty serve and forehand allow her to hit the outside of the ball, creating sharp angles that challenge her opponents. Her comfort at the net, developed through doubles play, adds another layer of complexity to her game.

Conclusion

Emma Raducanu will need to be at the top of her game to overcome the former Wimbledon champion. By leveraging her aggressive forehand and maintaining baseline control, Raducanu can navigate the challenges posed by Vondrousova’s versatile playstyle. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter at Wimbledon.