Rising Star Emma Raducanu Stages Stunning Comeback to Reach Dubai Semifinals

Emma Raducanu delivered the performance of her young career Thursday evening, mounting a spectacular comeback from two sets down to defeat world No. 8 Maria Sakkari 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 and advance to the semifinals of the Dubai Tennis Championships. The victory marks Raducanu's first win over a top-10 opponent since her fairytale US Open triumph in 2021.

Facing match point at 4-5 in the third set, the 21-year-old Briton seemed destined for another early exit. Sakkari, known for her powerful groundstrokes and mental toughness, appeared in complete control after dominating the first two sets. But Raducanu found something extra when she needed it most, saving three match points with winners and beginning an incredible turnaround.

"I honestly don't know where that came from," Raducanu said in her on-court interview. "Maria was playing incredible tennis, and I was just trying to stay in the point. Something clicked in that third set, and I started believing I could turn it around. The crowd here in Dubai was amazing - they really lifted me when I needed it most."

The turning point came with Raducanu trailing 4-5, 15-40 in the third set. Rather than playing defensively, she unleashed her forehand, painting the lines with winners that left Sakkari stunned. The momentum shift was palpable as Raducanu won seven of the next eight games to level the match and seize control.

Sakkari, who reached the semifinals at both Roland Garros and the US Open in 2021, visibly struggled to regain her composure after letting the commanding lead slip away. Her usually reliable serve began to falter, and Raducanu pounced on every opportunity, breaking serve four times in the final two sets.

The victory sets up a semifinal clash with defending champion Petra Kvitova, who earlier defeated Karolina Pliskova in straight sets. For Raducanu, it represents a return to the form that made her a household name, coming at a crucial time as she looks to establish herself consistently among the world's elite.

"This win gives me so much confidence going forward," Raducanu added. "I know I can compete with anyone when I play my best tennis. Now I just need to keep building on this and show I can do it week after week."