Monday, 23 Sep 2024

Emma Raducanu says it 'meant everything' to get message from Queen

Emma Raducanu has said that she may frame her message from the Queen congratulating her on her incredible US Open win.

The teenager, 18, took the trophy yesterday evening against fellow teen Leylah Fernandez, from Canada.

Her remarkable rise did not see her lose a single set in the competition, despite not being seeded and getting a place as a qualifer.

She told the BBC: ‘It meant everything to get a message from Her Majesty. She’s such a great inspiration and role model for the whole country so to have a note from her…

‘I was extremely honoured and very very grateful that she took notice of my tennis. I can’t believe it. I’m maybe going to frame that letter or something.’ 

The message from Queen Elizabeth II read: ‘I send my congratulations to you on your success in winning the United States Open Tennis Championships. I

‘It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication.

‘I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent, Leylah Fernandez, will inspire the next generation of tennis players. I send my warmest good wishes to you and your many supporters.’  

William and Kate also praised her her ‘stunning performances and historic Grand Slam victory’, and Boris Johnson said ‘we are all hugely proud of you’.

She won the US Open final in straight sets 6-4 6-3, becoming the first qualifier to win a grand slam – only three months after she took her A-levels.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: ‘What a winner. A true British hero. Congratulations @EmmaRaducanu on an inspirational win. From qualifier to champion without dropping a set. A phenomenal achievement.’

Celebrity fans also added their praise.

Pop group The Spice Girls, who first went on hiatus two years before Raducanu was born, tweeted ‘Wow! Amazing tennis from @leylahfernandez and @EmmaRaducanu that’s Girl Power right there!!’

TV presenter Gary Lineker said: ‘First time in my life I’ve ever tweeted whilst on air but my goodness what a performance, what a triumph, what an amazing young woman.

‘Congratulations @EmmaRaducanu on a truly staggering achievement. US Open winner at 18 without losing a set.

‘Extraordinarily fabulous.’

8 Out Of 10 Cats host Jimmy Carr described the teenager as a ‘legend’ and admitted he had become emotional through the match.

‘Emma Raducanu – 20 straight sets. What a performance? What a legend? The game I love played beautifully,’ he tweeted.

‘I think it’s ok I shed a tear. Congratulations Emma & also well done on those A Levels.’

Former Countdown host Carol Vorderman said: ‘Amazing…..huge congratulations to our new Queen of Tennis….’

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon added her congratulations.

‘Just incredible! @EmmaRaducanu is a star, a role model and a champion. Congratulations!’ she tweeted.

‘I suspect tonight is one of these sporting occasions that will be talked about for decades to come.

‘Two great players who will no doubt dominate women’s tennis for years to come.’

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