Emma Raducanu ‘inspired’ by Andy Murray as she holds nerve to reach Indian Wells third-round

Emma Raducanu held her nerve to seal a place in the third round at Indian Wells with a gritty three sets win over France’s Caroline Garcia.

It was a defiant performance from the British number one, who has had question marks cast over her form this year, having struggled since winning the US Open last September. 

But there was plenty for the teenager to be please about in California, and signs that she is back to full fitness at last. 

Indeed, the world number 13 has been plagued with physical problems this season and was forced to retire in Guadalajara last month with a hip injury. 

Yet, despite leaving it late to confirm her participation in this event, the 19-year-old raced into a commanding 3-0 lead against the experienced Garcia. 

The Brit saved four break points at 3-1 up –– showcasing her grit and determination, before sealing the set in comfortable fashion 6-1.

Raducanu took the lead early in the second set, but Garcia rallied and the pair traded breaks of serve. After three breaks in a row, Garcia then held her own serve at 5-3 to force a decider. 

Before the start of the third set, Raducanu was seen talking to herself and her pep-talk appeared to work as she immediately seized the initiative.

With the momentum in her favour, the Brit grew in confidence and booked her spot in round three by winning the decider 6-1. 

In truth, Garcia was far from her best and will be disappointed not to have mustered more of a challenge in the final set. 

The former world number four had beaten Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska to reach the second stage of the competition but looked a shadow of the player that has won seven WTA titles so far in her career. 

Speaking after the match, Raducanu admitted she had been inspired by Andy