\n<\/p>\n
Raducanu came into the New York encounter against Rybakina riding a wave of optimism.<\/p>\n
A productive season, where she has spent more time on court and looked increasingly resilient, has put her on the verge of climbing back into the world’s top 30.<\/p>\n
Raducanu’s ranking has not been higher since September 2022 – when her mountain of points for winning the US Open fell off.<\/p>\n
But she fell just short of earning a seeding at Flushing Meadows, which left her open to facing a highly-ranked player early in the draw.<\/p>\n
“I’ve lost to Iga twice, Aryna, and Elena, so it’s tough,” Raducanu said.<\/p>\n
“But at the same time, that’s where I’m at with my ranking. I can play top opponents in the first, second, or third round. <\/p>\n
“So I’ve just got to do my best in the next few months until Australia to just keep working to try and close the gap.”<\/p>\n
Twice pushing Sabalenka – taking her to three sets in Cincinnati less than a month after their Wimbledon meeting – were further signs of encouragement.<\/p>\n
However, the chastening defeat by world number nine Rybakina, who hit the Briton off court with a flurry of excoriating winners, was a reminder of how she still needs to improve.<\/p>\n
It meant Raducanu has now won just three of her 18 career matches against top-10 opponents.<\/p>\n
“Depending on the day, depending on how we match up, I think I’m getting better overall,” she said.<\/p>\n
“I think I’m improving for sure in the last few months. I just need to keep consistent and put this one behind.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n