Vekic Defeats Raducanu to Win Queen’s Club Title

By Eppe Franklyne| Donna Vekic produced a composed display to overcome Emma Raducanu and claim the Queen’s Club title with a 6-0, 7-6(6) victory on Sunday, ending the British star’s spirited challenge in front of a passionate home crowd.

The Croatian entered the tournament as a lucky loser after falling short in qualifying, but she completed a remarkable run by securing her first title since 2023. The Donna Vekic Queen’s Club triumph capped an impressive week in which she consistently delivered high-level performances.

Vekic made a blistering start to the final, overwhelming Raducanu with powerful groundstrokes and precise winners from all areas of the court. Her aggressive approach left the former US Open champion struggling to settle, and the Croatian raced through the opening set without dropping a game.

However, Raducanu responded strongly in the second set. Encouraged by the home support, she raised her level and earned a double-break advantage to move 5-2 ahead, appearing on course to force a deciding set.

Just when momentum seemed to have shifted, Vekic regained her rhythm. The 29-year-old battled back impressively, reducing the deficit before drawing level. She also saved a set point when Raducanu led 5-4, keeping her hopes alive in a tense contest.

The closing stages produced plenty of drama as Vekic missed three championship points while leading 6-5. Both players showed signs of fatigue after a series of demanding rallies, sending the match into a tie-break.

Raducanu continued to fight and saved another match point, but Vekic eventually sealed victory on her fifth opportunity. The Croatian finally closed out the contest when Raducanu sent a tired groundstroke beyond the court boundaries.

The Donna Vekic Queen’s Club success represents a significant milestone ahead of the grass-court season, while Raducanu can still take positives from an encouraging run in front of her home supporters.