Emma Raducanu: Chris Evert hits back at tennis star's critics

Chris Evert has hit back at critics claiming Emma Raducanu is more focused on endorsement deals than playing tennis. 

Evert defended the US Open champion after she continued her impressive run at the Madrid Open.

Following victories against Tereza Martincová and Marta Kostyuk, Raducanu will now play Anhelina Kalinina this evening in the last 16 of the WTA 1000 event. 

The 19-year-old seems to have found her feet on clay, winning back-to-back matches twice in as many weeks.

Raducanu had initially struggled to put together a run of form since her triumph at the US Open. During this period, she received criticism for her growing list of sponsors, which includes Nike, Wilson, Evian, British Airways, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Vodafone and Porsche.

Evert suggested on Twitter that these critics have now been proven wrong. The 67-year-old American shared a post listing Raducanu’s impressive serve statistics, along with a brilliant caption.

“And the doubters think Emma is more focused on endorsements and appearances? I don’t think so…”

Raducanu recently opened up about the “tough” period after her improbable victory at the US Open.

“I’ve definitely gone through a lot of challenges and I feel like now in the recent weeks, I’ve definitely come to terms and have started enjoying the journey.

“It is just coming back from getting knocked down again and again and again. And then finally, you feel like you’re yourself again.” 

And the doubters think Emma is more focused on endorsements and appearances? I don’t think so…