Revelling in Emma’s rise

You do not have to be a tennis fan to appreciate the accomplishments of rising British star, Emma Raducanu.

Last night, I watched the 18-year-old sweep aside Swiss Olympic champion, Belinda Bencic in the last eight of the US Open, and I was amazed at the sheer joy with which the British youngster played every point.

This is not normal behaviour in the world of elite sport, where the end result of every gladiatorial contest means everything – and victory, or defeat, can cost a player large wads of cash.

And then I saw the crucifix dangling from Emma’s neck, and I suddenly understood why she may play as if she hasn’t got a care in the world!

I don’t know if she is a Christian, and there is no information on the subject in places like Wikipedia. But, these days, one doesn’t wear such jewellery without good reason, such are the levels of ridicule and scorn that are fired at ‘believers’ from a cynical and fearful world.

In addition, Emma’s parents have kept her feet firmly grounded, prioritising her A’Levels over her fledgling career. Her A-star grade at Maths, reveals everything you need to know about her intelligence levels, which are displayed every time she hits the ball.

There’s something very refreshing and old-fashioned about the childhood and early years of Ms Raducanu – and the good news is we can all learn from her.

For we don’t have to be at the top of our chosen profession – and basking in the adulation of a growing legion of fans – to get something out of the day-to-day.

A positive attitude and a determination to wake up with a smile on our face is usually the difference between having a good day, and one that we don’t savour.

So, thank you Emma Raducanu. It’s not only your tennis that is lighting up the TV screen but the way you seem to be living your young life. You are giving hope on many levels.

Tony Yorke is the deputy editor of Sorted magazine.