The Queen was one of many to congratulate the 18-year-olds incredible victory
Emma Raducanu’s US Open victory captured the hearts of millions last night, as she became the youngest woman to win a Grand Slam title since Maria Sharapova back in 2004.
Not only that, but the 18-year-old – who was born in Canada and has both Romanian and Chinese heritage – cruised to her first Grand Slam title without dropping a single set. Seriously impressive stuff.
Naturally, the fans and fellow sports personalities around the world led the celebrations on social media, and many were pleased to see Queen Elizabeth II herself congratulate the teenager.
'I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent Leylah Fernandez, will inspire the next generation of tennis players.'
Read The Queen's message to @EmmaRaducanu in full: https://t.co/m5lxaH7kKi pic.twitter.com/aFSaCisDC0
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 11, 2021
Despite many claiming that the Queen isn’t the biggest fan of the sport – perhaps why we often see the likes of Prince William and Kate Middleton (who also gave their congratulations) there instead – no one can deny that last night’s showing was some spectacle.
As you can see from the Royal Family‘s official statement, the Queen said: “It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication.
You can read the rest below:
“I send my congratulations to you on your success in winning the United States Open Tennis Championships. It is a remarkable achievement at such a young age, and is testament to your hard work and dedication.
I have no doubt your outstanding performance, and that of your opponent Leylah Fernandez, will inspire the next generation of tennis players. I send my warmest good wishes to you and your many supporters.
ELIZABETH R.”
Imagine winning your first major singles title at 18, then looking at your phone to see The Queen giving you a pat on the back? Madness.
Her Majesty wasn’t the only, of course: plenty took to Twitter and the like to cheer her on and revel in Raducanu‘s victory after that match-winning ace.
Not even hyperbole – That is one of the greatest sporting achievements in British history.
A teenage qualifier, never drops a set or even more than four games in any set for the entire tournament! And goes on to become the #USOpen Champion! 🏆🎾🙌🏼🇬🇧
🤯🤯🤯 #Raducanu
— Sam Quek (@SamanthaQuek) September 11, 2021
Tennis legend, Billie Jean King, was there to applaud both Emma and her opponent, Leylah Fernandez – who put in an amazing performance – on a wonderful showing.
What a terrific display of competition & maturity from two exceptional players.
It is wonderful to see this generation living our dream.
I can’t remember a #USOpen with better crowd support. Thank you, NY, the greatest fans in the world.
And congratulations, Emma! pic.twitter.com/fQcOMkV3wk
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) September 11, 2021
Congratulations Emma Raducanu! 🏆
Gary has a message to anyone just joining us who may have been watching the #USOpen final…#motd pic.twitter.com/r0EZfxJ7ix
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) September 11, 2021
This. Just this:
Half Romanian, half Chinese. Born in Canada, brought up in the UK. Immigration enriches us, and always has done. #Raducanu
— Sathnam Sanghera (@Sathnam) September 11, 2021
However, simply because of the clip, this one was our pick of the lot. Sing it back.
https://twitter.com/WSCREAMFOOTBALL/status/1436821107860979717?s=20
Congratulations again, Emma – we can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.
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