Emma Raducanu, the 22-year-old British tennis star, is taking decisive steps to elevate her game and physical fitness by hiring renowned fitness trainer Yutaka Nakamura. Best known for his work with tennis legends like Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka, Nakamura will now travel with Raducanu throughout the upcoming season.
Since her stunning victory at the US Open in 2021, Raducanu has struggled with injuries, which have hampered her ability to consistently compete at the highest level. With her new trainer, she aims to address these setbacks and maximize her athletic potential.
“I think he is going to help me just really explore how far I can go, athletically,” Raducanu explained. “I think I can become one of the best athletes out there in tennis, and I’m just looking forward to seeing how much I can do.”
This new partnership comes as part of a more integrated approach, combining Nakamura’s expertise with the guidance of her coach, Nick Cavaday, who has provided stability to her training over the past year.
Raducanu is set to embark on her preseason training in Brisbane next week, followed by Christmas in New Zealand. She plans to begin her 2025 season at the Auckland Open on December 30 and hopes to compete in Adelaide before the Australian Open kicks off on January 12.
Currently ranked 59th in the world, Raducanu is eager to build momentum by playing as many matches as possible early in the season. Having recovered from a foot injury that sidelined her for two months, she is feeling physically strong and ready for the challenges ahead.
“I feel really strong. I feel really fit. The only thing I can’t really speak for is I haven’t played that many matches. On the training court, I feel amazing. I’m running around, throwing myself around on the court. It’s different playing matches, but I’m eager to see how I handle tougher levels of competition.”
Raducanu also shared her thoughts on the recent doping controversy involving Iga Swiatek, who received a one-month ban following a positive test for a contaminated supplement. The incident has left Raducanu feeling uneasy, reflecting the heightened scrutiny in the sport.
As Raducanu gears up for a packed 2025 season, her focus on athletic development under Nakamura’s guidance and her determination to compete at a high level promise to make the upcoming year a pivotal one. With a robust team and a clear vision, Raducanu hopes to remind the tennis world why she captured global attention just three years ago.
Stay tuned as the British star works to reclaim her place among the sport’s elite.