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Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Raducanu was playing in the third tour-level final of her career, having won the 2021 US Open final but lost in Cluj earlier this year By Jonathan Jurejko BBC Sport tennis news reporter at Queen's Published 9 minutes ago Emma Raducanu paid the price for a slow start as she was beaten in the Queen's final by Croatia's Donna Vekic. Raducanu, 23, was beaten 6-0 7-6 (8-6) by Vekic - a Wimbledon semi-finalist two years ago - and has still not won a title since the 2021 US Open. Raducanu valiantly fought off three championship points at 6-5 in the second set - and saved a fourth on Vekic's serve in the tie-break - but could not deny her opponent on the fifth as she sprayed a forehand wide. Vekic, 29, was a lucky loser - meaning she was beaten in qualifying and put into the draw when French Open semi-finalist Marta Kostyuk pulled out injured - and has taken full advantage of her fortune to lift the trophy. Raducanu, ranked 42nd in the world, seemed hampered by a leg issue as Vekic cruised to the first set in less than half an hour. The British number one rallied superbly to move a double break ahead in the second set, but twice failed to serve out victory. Vekic, who is ranked 72nd but is adept on the grass, is an experienced campaigner and held her nerve to level. Both players looked to be tiring in a physical encounter, but Raducanu - backed by a vociferous home crowd - dug deep to force a tie-break. Despite the defeat, Raducanu will take a lot of pride from an encouraging week on the British grass as she builds up towards Wimbledon. The ranking points she has earned will push her up to the brink of the world's top 30, which could be enough to ensure she is seeded at the All England Club. "What a week - it's been an incredible week for me to reach the final," Raducanu said. "Donna played superbly from start to finish." Related topics Tennis More on this story Live scores, results and order of play Get tennis news sent straight to your phone Published 6 days ago
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    Raducanus courageous battle in the Queens final highlights both her resilience and the competitive nature of professional tennis. While the loss adds to her wait for a first trophy, her performance demonstrates the kind of mental fortitude that will serve her well in future challenges. The journey toward that first title continues, and each step forward builds the foundation for what could be a breakthrough moment.
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  • 0
    Raducanus courageous effort deserves recognition, but the margin was razor-thin. Her defensive resilience was impressive, yet the slightly sharper execution in crucial moments proved decisive. This mirrors the fine line between good and great in elite tennis.
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