Emma Raducanu relishing clay court return at Porsche Grand Prix

The 20-year-old reached the quarter-final last year after victories over Storm Hunter and Tamara Korpatsch before facing world number one Iga Swiatek in the last eight.

<p>Raducanu gave a good account of herself against the world's best player but the Pole won the quarter-final contest 6-4, 6-4.</p>

Speaking during a interview with the tournament sponsors, the former US Open champion described the tournament as a "super way to begin the clay court season."</p>

"Very much so! I had a great experience last year and played well, it's a fun tournament and very well run so I'm really looking forward to returning to Stuttgart," she said.

"I think it's a very nice arena for tennis and provides a great atmosphere. Of course, having the cars behind the court and also being able to rent from a selection of Porsche's throughout the week is pretty cool!"

<p>The Briton finds herself ranked 68th in the world currently after struggling with injury over the last year, and she is well aware that she will need to play at a high level to at least match last year's performance.</p>

"The tournament always attracts the world's top players," the former top-10 player added.

"The strong field means there's some great tennis to be seen and good competition. Personally, I like to test myself and compete with the best players in the world, so it's a challenge I enjoy."

<p>This week's tournament in Germany will be her first on clay in nearly 12 months, but she is eager to test herself on the slower surface and see what progress she made as a player in the meantime.</p>

"I haven't played on clay since the last clay court season but I'm looking forward to it again," she continued.

"I've already had my first practice sessions. Last year was my first real experience on clay and I was pleased with my progress so it will be fun getting back playing on clay."

Raducanu added that the tournament might suit her style consider it takes place indoors, which tends to be a bit faster than some of the outdoor clay courts.

"It plays a bit faster than an outdoor clay court, such as Rome, and I think it suits my game," she concluded.

The tournament is a super way to begin the clay season. So hopefully it sets me up well and helps the transition to clay."

<p>The article <a href="https://www.planetsport.com/tennis/news/emma-raducanu-relishing-clay-court-return-porsche-grand-prix">Emma Raducanu relishing clay court return at Porsche Grand Prix </a> appeared first on Planetsport.com.</p>