It takes time and patience for any player returning from a long absence to regain match sharpness.
Considering Raducanu’s physical and mental struggles since winning the 2021 US Open, even more caution is necessary.
Seeing Raducanu struggle physically in the deciding set against 94th-ranked Wang was unsurprising, but not necessarily worrying.
Her determination and glimpses of quality during the three-hour match were encouraging and admirable.
Wang played smartly in the first set, making Raducanu pay for a slow start in a challenging breeze.
Despite facing setbacks in the match, Raducanu managed to increase her level of play and showed resilience.
Struggling with breathing difficulties and feeling nauseous, Raducanu still refused to give in and fought until the end.
