Honoured Raducanu says she didn’t realise the impact she’s had on young players

The 20-year-old collected her MBE from King Charles III on Tuesday, just over a year on her from her stunning US Open triumph

Photoshot / Panoramic

Simon Cambers

November 29, 2022

Little over a year after winning the US Open in such stunning fashion, Emma Raducanu picked up another award on Tuesday and it was a big one as she was awarded her MBE (Member of the British Empire) from King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

The 20-year-old has endured a tough year since her New York triumph, losing in the first round on her return to the US Open as champion and seeing her ranking drop to No 75.

Tennis star Emma Raducanu said she is “extremely grateful” for her MBE after meeting the King at a special ceremony at Windsor Castle.

She beamed as she posed for pictures after accepting the honour, awarded for services to tennis. pic.twitter.com/rTYhTkLWpw
— London Live (@LondonLive) November 29, 2022

As she begins to prepare for 2023, the Briton said she was excited about the future and immensely proud at the effect her victory and achievements were having on young people taking up tennis in the country.

“After the US Open, I was struggling to get a court at my local club,” Raducanu said, in an interview with Grazia magazine. “There was no special treatment at all.

“I’m so proud. I don’t really see the impact I’ve had until I see the courts way more booked up. I’ve seen the kids at my local primary school and at the National Tennis Centre, they’re all so excited.

“There’s been a lot of money invested from Prime Video and the Federation got some investment after the US Open, so I do feel like I helped in some way. Hopefully it can inspire some kids in the next generation.”