Emma Raducanu makes surprising ‘loner’ admission ahead of Italian Open

Since the end of last season, the US Open winner has been working with Torben Beltz, the German who has worked with three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber in the past.

But two weeks ago, Raducanu ended her partnership with Beltz following their decision to part ways with two other coaches last year, esteemed British coach Nigel Sears and Andrew Richardson.

Raducanu is now operating without a designated coach and ahead of the Italian Open, where she plays Bianca Andreescu in the first round, the 19-year-old told reporters: “I would describe myself as a loner. In the past year I have had many people around me often and often.

“Being alone is interesting because I find out so much about myself and understand what I need and don’t need.”

Since winning the US Open, Raducanu has struggled to replicate the form that made New York shine.

Due to injuries and fitness problems, the Briton has withdrawn from a number of tournaments this season, her best result being in Stuttgart in April, where she reached the quarter-finals.

As the French Open draws nearer, Raducanu is playing professionally on clay courts for the first time in her career as she tries to prepare for her second Grand Slam of the year.

Last week the teenage sensation made it into the last 16 of the Madrid Open and is keen to continue improving her clay court game.

She added: “Clay is very new to me. I definitely feel like I’ve made progress with each passing week, improving and getting a better understanding of how to play points, when to stay on point or when to stay aggressive.

“I don’t think I’m like the finished product at all. But yes, I’m going in a good direction.’

MORE: ‘I’ve had a few issues’ – Emma Raducanu gives injury update after Madrid Open loss

MORE : Emma Raducanu shows renewed focus after ‘tough’ decision to part ways with coach Torben Beltz

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