Emma Raducanu defeats Elise Mertens to reach the Grand Slam third round for the first time since her US Open victory

03 July 2024 , 20:34

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Raducanu was roared on by the No1 Court crowdCredit: Rex

The British superstar is set to play with Andy Murray later this week

Ruthless Emma Raducanu dropped just three games as she crushed Elise Mertens to reach the third round of Wimbledon.

For the first time since that amazing, unprecedented US Open win in 2021, Raducanu has won back-to-back matches at a tennis Slam.

The 21-year-old was in brilliant formCredit: Rex

On the day it was confirmed she would partner up with tennis icon Andy Murray in mixed doubles action, the Brit, 21, was in dominant fashion under the No1 Court roof.

The Bromley player cruised through the first set in 38 minutes against the more experienced Belgian with two breaks of serve.

And the comprehensive 6-1 6-2 triumph was sealed with 75 minutes on the match clock as she reminded everybody what all the hype was about during those heady days three years ago in New York.

Indeed, it was the fewest number of games dropped at major level since her 6-0 6-1 thrashing of Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo in that epic Big Apple adventure.

This was her first time on No1 Court since having a panic attack against Australian Alja Tomljanovic three years ago that curtailed her passage through the draw at the last-16 stage.

On this form, and if she maintains this type of momentum, few would bet against Raducanu going to the fourth round again at SW19 and maybe even further.

Next up she plays Greek No9 seed Maria Sakkari, who will be no significant frightening proposition especially as the Brit beat Sakkari in the US Open semi-finals.

Raducanu has guaranteed herself at least £143,000 by reaching round three.

Elizabeth Baker