Raducanu’s solid clay-court progress halted by Gauff, who proves too strong in Rome

Emma Raducanu’s promising run at the Italian Open ended in the last 16 as world number three Coco Gauff showcased her impressive clay-court prowess, defeating the British number two 6-1 6-2. For Raducanu, ranked 49th in the world, the defeat marked the end of her most successful clay-court campaign to date, having won three consecutive matches to reach the fourth round for the first time in her career.

However, Raducanu’s hopes of a shock victory over Gauff quickly diminished as the American’s dominance on the surface became evident. Gauff, who reached the French Open final three years ago and made the Madrid final last week, returned superbly from the start, dictating the points with her athleticism and heavy shot-making. Raducanu, though resolute, struggled to match the intensity of Gauff’s returns, which were particularly effective on the high-bouncing clay courts.

“Emma is a tough opponent no matter what surface and always tough to play – so I’m happy with how I played,” Gauff said after the match. “My level is getting better every match, and Madrid was a step in the right direction. Today, I think my forehand was a big weapon, setting me up for many good points.”

Raducanu, despite the loss, reflected on the positives of her progress in Rome. “I just know that every day I’m trying to be the best version of myself, I’m trying to win the day, and I’m trying to get back to that. It was a tough one at the office, but I’ll find a way to win the day still today,” she said.

The encounter marked Raducanu’s 21st clay-court match in her career, far fewer than Gauff’s extensive experience on the surface. Clay has always been a challenge for the 22-year-old Briton, who, like most British players, had limited exposure to the surface in her formative years. Yet, reaching the last 16 after defeating Maya Joint, Jil Teichmann, and Veronika Kudermetova was a notable achievement for Raducanu, who has increasingly found her feet on the red dirt.

But facing a top-class opponent like Gauff, who is both an exceptional mover and a heavy hitter, exposed the gap between the two players. While Raducanu was able to get into points, Gauff’s strength and consistency proved too much for her to handle, as the American effortlessly moved ahead in both sets.

Despite the setback, Raducanu heads to the French Open, which begins on 25 May, in a positive frame of mind. The arrival of Mark Petchey as part of her coaching team has revitalised her, and since their partnership began informally, Raducanu has won eight out of her 11 matches. The collaboration with long-time coach Jane O’Donoghue has contributed to a more relaxed and focused approach to her game.

The British number one battle remains tight, with Raducanu looking to reclaim the position from Katie Boulter. After Boulter’s early exit from the Italian Open, Raducanu’s progress could have propelled her back to the top spot in British women’s tennis. However, with Boulter, Raducanu, and the rising Sonay Kartal all vying for the title, the competition remains fierce.

Meanwhile, in the Italian Open, several other top players progressed to the quarter-finals, including world number one Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 7-6. American Peyton Stearns also continued her strong run, defeating Naomi Osaka, while Italian sixth seed Jasmine Paolini triumphed over Jelena Ostapenko.