The HSBC Championships at Queen’s Club witnessed a powerful resurgence of British tennis as Emma Raducanu advanced comfortably into the second round, while Czech Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova made a surprising early exit. Both developments are shaping the narrative at the first WTA 500 women’s tournament at Queen’s since 1973, drawing intense attention ahead of the grasscourt Grand Slam season.
Raducanu, returning to form after battling back spasms since the French Open, delivered a commanding 6‑1, 6‑2 victory over Spain’s Cristina Bucșa in just over an hour. Her win was built on confident training sessions and strong support from coach Nick Cavaday. Meanwhile, Krejcikova faced a stunning upset, falling 6‑4, 6‑3 to Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova, casting doubt over her Wimbledon title defense. This article explores Raducanu’s performance, Krejcikova’s unexpected departure, and the broader implications for the grass-court season.
Emma Raducanu excels on return to grass
Emma Raducanu displayed confidence and control en route to a decisive first‑round victory. Her crisp service games and aggressive baseline play dismantled Cristina Bucșa, avenging an earlier season loss. Battling persistent back spasms, Raducanu said she felt “locked in” on the court, crediting preparation and mental resilience for her strong performance.
Her scoreline—6‑1, 6‑2 in just over an hour—served notice that the 2021 US Open champion is building momentum on grass. As world No. 37, she remains one of Britain’s top hopes ahead of Wimbledon. A dominant showing here suggests Raducanu is regaining her best form.
Women return to Queen’s for the first time since 1973
The 2025 tournament marked the historic return of women’s tennis to Queen’s after a 52‑year absence. Featuring 11 of the world’s top 20 women, this WTA 500 event is part of a wider effort to elevate women’s tennis in the UK. LTA initiatives aim to equalize prize money by 2029, reflecting growing investment in the sport.
The fan atmosphere has been palpable. Double’s debut featuring Raducanu and Katie Boulter—dubbed “Boultercanu”—ended in a straight‑sets win and impressed a large crowd, even on a fringe court. Their camaraderie and dialogue energized the atmosphere and showcased the revived women’s draw at Queen’s.
Krejcikova suffers a shock defeat to Sramkova
Barbora Krejcikova’s campaign began with an unexpected upset. The Wimbledon champion, plagued by a recent back injury, fell 6‑4, 6‑3 to Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova. Sramkova’s aggressive first‑serve strategy—winning 78 % of first‑serve points—proved decisive.
Krejcikova, world No. 17 and fresh off injury entered the tournament hoping to sharpen her form before Wimbledon. But her defeat represents a major setback in both rankings points and confidence. The match stats show she struggled to convert her break chances and failed to sustain pressure under Sramkova’s serve.
Raducanu to face her conqueror
Raducanu’s next opponent is Rebecca Sramkova, riding high after her win over Krejcikova. That fresh momentum could make Sramkova a formidable challenge, but Raducanu’s stronger ranking and recent performances position her as a favorite.
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The upcoming match is poised to be a compelling contrast of styles: Raducanu’s attack and net skill versus Sramkova’s powerful service game. With Queens serving as a final test before Wimbledon, both players have much at stake.
British women lead the charge
Raducanu was not alone in progressing. Katie Boulter and Heather Watson also advanced in commanding fashion. Boulter held her nerve through a three‑set thriller against Ajla Tomljanovic, now set to meet world No. 12 Diana Shnaider. Watson secured a straight‑sets win over Yulia Putintseva and drew former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.
This marks a significant moment for British women’s tennis—four players reach the last 16 here, a validation of the LTA’s investment and the players’ dedication. With Wimbledon approaching, these early victories may help carry the momentum forward.
Grasscourt momentum building toward Wimbledon
Performance trends at Queen’s often predict Wimbledon’s success. Players gaining form and confidence here have historically carried that through to SW19. Raducanu’s show of strength, combined with Boulter’s resilience and Watson’s consistency, suggests Britain has multiple contenders on grass this summer.
Krejcikova’s early exit, however, raises questions about her readiness to defend at Wimbledon. Fresh from injury, she’ll need to regroup quickly. Her departure opens the draw for others, potentially making Queen’s performance more consequential.
Tournament atmosphere and logistics
Queen’s has upgraded the tournament experience for fans. Women’s matches returned with full support, new pre‑recorded line‑call systems, and color-coded seating for enhanced visibility. Even minor court experiences are used to engage fans, particularly in doubles, enhancing player accessibility and emotional connection.
The event sold over 50,000 tickets rapidly, underscoring pent‑up demand for high‑level women’s tennis in London. As the tournament progresses, the mix of strong narratives and exciting match‑ups promises an electrifying build‑up to Wimbledon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Emma Raducanu defeat in the first round at Queen’s Club?
She beat Spain’s Cristina Bucșa 6‑1, 6‑2 in a dominant straight-sets win.
How did Barbora Krejcikova lose, and who beat her?
Krejcikova was upset 6‑4, 6‑3 by Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova, who delivered a powerful, consistent performance.
When did women last play a tournament at Queen’s Club?
The last women’s event at Queen’s took place in 1973. The WTA 500 return in 2025 marks a historic revival.
What other British women advanced alongside Raducanu?
Katie Boulter won a tough three-set match, and Heather Watson earned a straight-sets victory to also reach round two.
Who will Raducanu face next?
Raducanu is set to play Rebecca Sramkova, who eliminated Krejcikova in the second round.
Is Raducanu dealing with any injuries?
Yes, she has experienced back spasms since the clay season but says she’s managing them well on grass.
What significance does this tournament hold for Wimbledon?
Queen’s serves as a prime grasscourt warm‑up; strong showings here often translate to Wimbledon success.
What changes have been made at Queen’s Club for 2025?
Besides hosting women again, the tournament introduced line‑calling tech and color-coded seating to improve the spectator experience.
Conclusion
Emma Raducanu’s commanding win at Queen’s Club signals renewed promise ahead of Wimbledon, while Krejcikova’s early exit complicates her title defense. With four British women into the second round and upgraded tournament facilities, Queen’s has provided a potent mix of athletic revival, historical significance, and fanfare. As the grasscourt season intensifies, these results offer both narrative momentum and anticipation for what’s next at SW19.
