Emma Raducanu stuns Transylvania Open with epic 11-game comeback–here’s how it happened

Emma Raducanu produced a stunning display of resilience and composure to book her place in the Transylvania Open quarter-finals, overturning a nightmare start to defeat world No.97 Kaja Juvan in straight sets. The British star recovered from 5–0 down in the opening set, going on an extraordinary run of 11 consecutive games to seal a dramatic 7-5, 6-1 victory in Cluj-Napoca.

The match marked only Raducanu’s second competitive appearance since her Australian Open exit, as well as her first tournament following her recent separation from coach Francis Roig. Entering the WTA 250 event as the top seed, expectations were high—but few could have predicted the sheer scale of the comeback that unfolded.

A Shaky Start Turns Into a Momentum Shift

Raducanu’s match could hardly have begun worse. Juvan came out firing, dictating play early and capitalising on unforced errors from the Briton to surge into a commanding 5–0 lead. The Slovenian repeatedly pushed Raducanu deep behind the baseline, disrupting her rhythm and forcing rushed decisions.

Despite attempting to play aggressively, Raducanu struggled to find her range. Balls sailed long, timing was off, and confidence appeared fragile as the first set seemed all but gone. But just when it looked like Juvan would cruise through the opener, the momentum began to shift.

Raducanu held serve to make it 5–1—and from that moment on, the contest completely changed complexion.

Eleven Games in a Row: A Turning Point Performance

What followed was one of the most remarkable streaks of Raducanu’s professional career. She won seven straight games to snatch the first set 7–5, stunning both her opponent and the crowd. Her movement sharpened, her returns became more aggressive, and her shot selection improved dramatically.

By the time the second set began, Raducanu was in full control. She raced through the set 6–1, breaking Juvan multiple times and barely allowing her opponent to settle. The confidence that had been missing early on was now evident in every rally, as Raducanu dictated play with depth, precision, and increasing authority.

In total, she captured 11 consecutive games, transforming what looked like an impending upset into a statement win.

Raducanu Reflects on a Career-First Comeback

Speaking to the crowd after the match, Raducanu expressed gratitude for the support that helped carry her through the toughest moments.

She admitted that Juvan’s early level put her under immediate pressure and forced her onto the defensive. While she was trying to play assertively from the outset, execution let her down. Still, she took encouragement from sticking to her game plan.

Raducanu also revealed that this was the first time in her career she had recovered from a 5–0 deficit, describing it as an experience she would take forward. Acknowledging the physical toll of the match, she noted the challenge of recovery ahead of a tight schedule but remained hopeful that the crowd’s energy would continue to fuel her campaign.

A Crucial Win at a Key Moment

Beyond the scoreline, the victory carries added significance for Raducanu as she continues to rebuild momentum in the early stages of the season. With coaching changes and recent setbacks behind her, performances like this underline her mental toughness and ability to adapt under pressure.

Reaching the quarter-finals in Cluj-Napoca keeps her title hopes alive and offers a valuable opportunity to build consistency, confidence, and match sharpness. More importantly, it sends a clear signal that Raducanu remains capable of producing elite-level tennis—even when circumstances appear stacked against her.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether she can carry this momentum forward and turn an unforgettable comeback into a deep run at the Transylvania Open.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who did Emma Raducanu beat at the Transylvania Open?
She defeated world No.97 Kaja Juvan in straight sets.

What was the score of the match?
Raducanu won 7–5, 6–1 after trailing 5–0 in the first set.

How many games in a row did Raducanu win?
She won 11 consecutive games across the first and second sets.

Is this Raducanu’s first comeback from 5–0 down?
Yes, she confirmed it was the first time she had achieved such a comeback.

What stage of the tournament has Raducanu reached?
She advanced to the quarter-finals of the Transylvania Open.