Raducanu loses Strasbourg Open first match after Richardson reunion

Emma Raducanu’s return to competition after more than two months ended in a frustrating 6-4, 7-6 (4) defeat to France’s Diane Parry in the first round of the Strasbourg Open, as she fought hard but failed to convert early opportunities.

The result was unsurprising for Raducanu, who has not competed since a straight-sets loss to Amanda Anisimova at Indian Wells in early March. She now faces the challenge of regaining rhythm, form and confidence after being outplayed by Parry, the world No. 94, who dominated with her forehand and effective variation.

Raducanu, ranked 37th, had been sidelined by a post-viral illness dating to February’s Middle East swing. She considered returning at the Italian Open two weeks ago but withdrew after on-site training.

This week marks her first tournament since rehiring Andrew Richardson as coach. They trained on clay at the Ferrer academy in La Nucia, Spain, during her recovery. Richardson was vocal from the player box, offering strategic advice and encouragement.

The last time Richardson and Raducanu were together on a match court, they held the US Open trophy in 2021 after a stunning title run. There is no instant magic this time; the key question is whether the pair can work together consistently over an extended period, given her injury history and coaching instability.

Raducanu had chances, establishing 4-2 leads in both sets, but poor serving cost her. She lost four straight games to drop the first set, then three straight to trail 5-4 in the second.

With the match at stake, Raducanu fought back. Parry served for the match at 5-4, leading 30-0, but Raducanu forced herself inside the baseline and took her forehand early to pull even. After losing a long service game, Raducanu forced a tiebreak.

Parry is a talented player with a heavy topspin forehand and ample variety. Initially known for a one-handed backhand, she now uses a two-handed backhand, often returning serve with two hands and using her left hand when convenient.

Parry’s clay-court expertise proved decisive in tight moments, dragging Raducanu off the court with angles and keeping the ball out of her strike zone. Despite late difficulties, Parry closed out a well-deserved straight-sets victory.