“We make a great living”: Raducanu’s Bold Stance on the Grueling Tennis Calendar
Emma Raducanu isn’t one to gripe about the tennis calendar. “We make a great living,” she said bluntly, shutting down complaints about the sport’s demanding schedule. The 21-year-old British star, fresh from a solid 2025 season (28 wins, 50 matches, world No. 29), believes as professionals, they should suck it up and handle the grind. “Constantly moaning about it isn’t inspiring for younger players looking up to us,” she told reporters.
Raducanu’s take contrasts sharply with some of tennis’ biggest names. Iga Swiatek called the schedule “crazy,” while Carlos Alcaraz deemed it “very tight.” But Raducanu flips the script: “If we put up a front that isn’t complaining, I think that is a better example to the people watching, trying to get into tennis, the younger people”. She likens it to regular folks having to do their jobs as told: “They don’t get to choose their hours. We should be able to handle ours”.
The Context:
The 2025 season was a mixed bag for Raducanu. No titles, but she cracked the top 30 for the first time since 2021, reached the US Open third round, and played 50 matches. With coach Francisco Roig, she’s focusing on dictating points more and relying less on tactics. “I’m trying to be more aggressive, play my game,” she said.
Raducanu’s Philosophy:
– Professionalism Over Pity: “We’re lucky to do this for a living. Complaining doesn’t help.”
– Inspiring Younger Fans: “A positive front sets a better example.”
– Mental Toughness: “Handling the schedule is part of the job. We should own it”.
Critics might say Raducanu’s privileged (her 2021 US Open win netted $2.5 million), but she argues it’s about attitude: “We’re in a position to make choices. Let’s make the right ones.” Meanwhile, fellow Brit Andy Murray backs her view: “Players need to adapt. The calendar isn’t going to change”.
What’s next for Raducanu? A tilt at the 2026 Australian Open with renewed aggression? With her fire and focus, the possibilities are thrilling.
