Aryna Sabalenka edged out Emma Raducanu in a three-set thriller in Cincinnati, and the world No. 1 made a surprising comment about her fitness levels after the match

Emma Raducanu is encouraged by her preparations for the US Open after pushing Aryna Sabalenka close in a competitive defeat in Cincinnati. Raducanu was beaten in a third-set tiebreak by the world No 1 having battled back from a set down to force a decider, and matched Sabalenka virtually stroke for stroke throughout.

Emma Raducanu has been making huge strides this season. The Brit has focused on packing her schedule and getting as many matches as possible, and it’s paying off. On Monday, she came painstakingly close to beating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, just losing 7-6 (3) 4-6 7-6 (5) in Cincinnati.