Emma Raducanu has admitted the addition of fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura to her team has already begun to yield results.
The 22-year-old is hoping to put her injury woes from the past few years behind her heading into 2025.
Raducanu appeared back on track heading into the grasscourt season this past summer where she managed to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.
But fitness troubles stunted her progress and she played in just three WTA Tour tournaments – including a first-round exit at the US Open – before the season ended.
Emma Raducanu is hoping to make big strides in 2025
SKY SPORTS
Raducanu made a promising return at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals with Great Britain, winning all three of her singles matches convincingly.
Her performances last month have acted as a springboard of hope heading into 2025 with Raducanu aiming to make big strides next year.
Part of her main focus has been to improve her strength and renowned trainer Nakamura has been brought in to help with that.
Explaining her reasoning for hiring the 52-year-old, Raducanu said she was hopeful of unlocking her true potential.
“I needed a more tailored approach and someone dedicated to me,” Raducanu told BBC Sport.
“My athleticism is a big strength that I have nowhere near fulfilled. I think I can become one of the best athletes in tennis.”
Raducanu confirmed talks with Nakamura took place at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals last month in Malaga.
And the British No 2 claims there has already been a positive impact since Nakamura joined her backroom team.
Emma Raducanu impressed at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals
Reuters
“Yutuka adds another dimension to the way Nick and I work – it has become integrated and connected,” Raducanu added.
“We can already see things that we do in the gym transferring onto the tennis court.
“We’re on a journey of exploration.”
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Emma Raducanu returns to action in Auckland
GETTY
Raducanu is set to travel to Brisbane this week to begin her preparations for the new season.
Her new campaign begins in Auckland on December 30 with the likes of Naomi Osaka, Sloane Stephens and Sofia Kenin.
Raducanu could also play the Adelaide International the following week ahead of the Australian Open.
+ There are no comments
Add yours