Just months ago, Emma Raducanu struggled to even get past the first round in back-to-back events. Remember how she failed to make any impression in Singapore, Doha, and Dubai? However, the 2021 US Open winner has witnessed a much-needed resurgence lately. And it’s come just at the right time, before the French Open. With a sensational campaign in Miami, reaching the last eight, the 22-year-old uplifted her spirits. But each event is a new experience, and Raducanu is aware of it. This week, she’s trying to prove her mettle in Strasbourg to attain a solid form before kick-starting the Roland Garros journey. However, the challenge ahead is going to be for the Brit. On Wednesday, she will face American star Danielle Collins in R16. So who’s going to advance in the next round? Let’s try to find out!
Emma Raducanu v Danielle Collins: Preview
Emma Raducanu’s 2025 season has been mostly underwhelming, to say the least. At the start of the year, she made it to the third round at the Australian Open but couldn’t go beyond. Former World No.1 and five-time slam queen Iga Swiatek ousted her with a breadstick and a bagel. This heavy defeat eventually affected the Brit’s form in subsequent tournaments. Besides disappointing runs in Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Dubai, she also exited the Indian Wells early after losing to Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima in R128.
But Raducanu finally regained her momentum at the Miami Open. She succeeded in reaching the QF stage before losing against American star Jessica Pegula. Then in Madrid, she failed to replicate the form from Miami. However, she did manage to enter the R16 in the next campaign at the Italian Open before losing to American talent Coco Gauff. Entering Strasbourg, she began her journey with a straight set win over Australia’s Daria Kasatkina (6-1, 6-3) on Monday.

Speaking of her opponent, Danielle Collins’ 2025 season hasn’t gone down well so far either. She’s failed to witness deep runs in most of her appearances. Back in January, she failed to go past the R32 at the Adelaide International. Then down under, compatriot Madison Keys edged her out in the third round of the Happy Slam. In the Indian Wells and Miami Open, too, Collins couldn’t move past R32 and R16.
In Charleston, however, the American delivered a promising performance. She reached the QF before losing to compatriot Jessica Pegula. Then at the Italian Open, she made it to R16 before facing an early exit against Elina Svitolina. Entering in Strasbourg, Collins kickstarted her campaign with a hard-earned victory against compatriot Sofia Kenin. After snatching the first set, the World No.46 lost the second set, but she managed to advance ahead with a final score line of 6-1, 1-6, 6-2.
Raducanu v Collins: Head-to-Head
Both players haven’t met in a WTA event so far in their careers. A the moment, the h2h tally stands at 0-0. Wednesday’s match will mark their maiden encounter on the professional level.
Prediction: Danielle Collins to win in three sets
Danielle Collins looks to have a little advantage over Emma Raducanu. At least in terms of the singles stats this season. She’s won 10 of her 15 matches compared to the Brit (8-9). But what about their event history?
Speaking of Collins, she’s played twice in Strasbourg so far. In her event debut, back in 2018, she couldn’t create an impact and crashed out in R16. However, her last campaign in 2024 was impressive to say the least. She succeeded in reaching the summit clash. Unfortunately, she couldn’t lift the trophy against compatriot Madison Keys. On the other hand, Raducanu is making her debut in Strasbourg this week.
Now, coming onto their playing styles, Raducanu prefers to dominate matches with her powerful backhand. Not to mention her strong serve as well. She’s also amazing in court coverage between the baseline and the net. Also, watch out for her impressive forehand that she uses to build extra pressure on the rivals. When it comes to Collins, she’s known for her aggressive approach. Her kick-serve, along with a double-handed backhand, is what makes her effective. She’s also got incredible volleying skills to utilize the net area.
Considering the overall form this season, Danielle Collins is appearing to be the favorite. Noting her previous record in Strasbourg, she’s expected to dominate Wednesday’s battle. Yes, Raducanu may pose a threat but the American is still likely to win in three sets.
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