Former two-time Grand Slam champion Li Na congratulated Emma Raducanu on winning the Laureus World Sports ‘Breakthrough of the Year’ award.
Raducanu, who captured her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open last year, grew up idolizing former world No. 2 Li Na.
After Raducanu won the prestigious award, she was congratulated by the player who inspired her to one become a tennis pro.
“Hey Emma, Li Na here to say congrats,” she said. “I’m happy that as a member of the Academy my colleagues and I have chosen you as the winner.”
Raducanu thanked Li Na via the Laureus World Sport Weibo account, saying in Mandarin. “Li Na, you are my favorite tennis star. I would like to say thank you. I want to meet you too. See you soon (English translation).”
Raducanu thrilled to win the award
Raducanu draw attention to herself for the first time at last year’s Wimbledon, when she reached the round-of-16 as a wildcard.
Raducanu caught the eye of many tennis pundits and former champion, who called her a future star.
However, no one was ready for the run that Raducanu put up during the US Open.
“It means so much to receive this award and I really want to congratulate my other nominees. I feel like it’s been a really great year for me but I’ve still got a lot of work to do,” Raducanu said.
Raducanu has been struggling with her game this season but pundits are preaching for patience as the 19-year-old Briton is undoubtedly one of the most talented players on the tour.
Recently, Raducanu revealed what was the key to her stunning US Open victory.
“At the US Open I think the biggest thing was just having zero expectations and haivng fun. That’s something that overtime I’ve definitely developed and starting to do more,” Raducanu said.