Guess what’s powering Emma Raducanu’s incredible US Open run? Elena Rybakina just dropped a major hint about what’s really changed for the British star! It’s not just about serves and volleys anymore. What secret ingredient has unlocked her potential on the court, making her a formidable opponent for even the top players?

World No. 10 Elena Rybakina has offered a fascinating insight into the transformation of British star Emma Raducanu, just as they prepare for a highly anticipated third-round clash at the US Open. This encounter between two former Grand Slam champions is set to be one of the tournament’s most compelling matches, with Rybakina hinting at a significant shift in Raducanu’s approach to professional tennis.

According to Rybakina, a crucial change for Raducanu lies in her newfound ability to alleviate self-imposed pressure, allowing her to play with a greater sense of freedom and enjoyment on the court. This mental fortitude, a vital component of elite competition, appears to be a key factor in Raducanu’s impressive US Open performance this year, contributing to her dominant victories in earlier rounds.

Raducanu’s journey to this stage has been marked by confident displays, including a resounding 6-2, 6-1 triumph over Janice Tjen in the second round, showcasing her renewed form and aggressive gameplay. Her progression highlights a potential resurgence, captivating tennis enthusiasts who are eager to see if she can maintain this momentum against a top-ranked opponent.

Meanwhile, Rybakina herself navigated a challenging second-round match, securing her spot by overcoming Tereza Valentova. Despite her own victory, Rybakina remains acutely aware of the formidable challenge Raducanu presents, acknowledging her opponent’s elevated level of play and strategic improvements on the Grand Slam stage.

The Kazakhstani star openly stated her belief that Raducanu will be a particularly tough adversary in their upcoming third-round showdown, emphasizing the necessity for her own game to escalate significantly if she intends to advance further in the prestigious US Open tournament. This mutual respect and recognition of each other’s capabilities add an extra layer of intrigue to the impending clash.

Rybakina’s 2025 season has presented its share of hurdles, as she has struggled to advance beyond the fourth round in previous Grand Slam events. Early exits at the French Open and Australian Open, coupled with a third-round departure from Wimbledon, underscore her determination to break this pattern and make a deeper run at Flushing Meadows.

As Friday approaches, all eyes will be on this high-stakes contest, where mental resilience, tactical prowess, and recent form will collide. Rybakina’s candid observations provide a compelling narrative, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling display of world-class tennis between two formidable competitors vying for a spot in the later stages of the US Open.