2021 US Open Second Round – Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
Where is Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu taking place? Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu will take place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York, USA
When is Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu on and what time does it start? Thursday 2nd September, 2021 – not before 17:00 (UK)
What surface is Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu being played on? Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu will take place on an outdoor hard court
Where can I get tickets for Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu? Visit this link for the latest ticket information for Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu
What channel is Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu on in the UK? Amazon have exclusive rights to show the 2021 US Open in the UK so it is worth checking the Amazon Prime Video app on smart TVs for Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu
Where can I stream Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu in the UK? Amazon Prime subscribers may be able to stream Shuai Zhang vs Emma Raducanu live via their platform
THE LOWDOWN
World number 150 Emma Raducanu is fast becoming a star on the biggest tennis stages after US Open fans welcomed her to New York with gusto on Tuesday. The 18-year-old was due to face Jennifer Brady but a stroke of luck saw the 13th seed pull out of their first round match and Raducanu was too good for lucky loser Stefanie Voegele, who she beat in comfortable straight sets. The Brit reached the round of 16 at Wimbledon in July on her Grand Slam debut. 32-year-old Shuai Zhang also won her opening US Open match in straight sets comfortably against Hailey Baptise. The world number 49 recently won the Cincinnati Open Women’s Doubles alongside partner and close friend Sam Stosur, with whom she also won the 2018 Australian Open Doubles title.
THE PREDICTION
Given that Emma Raducanu has played just WTA matches in her career so far it is a surprise to already have a second meeting with Shuai Zhang. The world number 49 beat Raducanu in the Brit’s first match following her dream Wimbledon run in straight sets at the Silicon Valley Classic exactly a month ago but this should be an altogether more competitive match. Raducanu garners plenty of support before her matches and wins the rest of the crowd over in a really encouraging, promising prospect for her future at the top of the sport. If this were taking place away from the bright lights and big occasion of a Grand Slam, Raducanu’s tour experience might yet again make this a loss to the vastly experienced Chinese star. However, the backing of the crowd and her infectious amped-up ability at a Grand Slam event makes her the favourite to reach the third round here. With Coco Gauff out of the draw, take notice of how much buzz will now attach itself to the 18-year-old.
