Emma Raducanu was delighted after thumping Maria Sakkari 6-2, 6-3 on Friday to make the fourth round of Wimbledon.
The 21-year-old had gone into the clash full of confidence after brilliant victories over Renata Zarazúa and Elise Mertens in rounds one and two.
And she continued her quest for a second Grand Slam triumph with arguably her most convincing win yet.
Raducanu seems to be playing with the power and confidence of a few years ago when she defied the odds to win the US Open.
Emma Raducanu was outstanding during her Wimbledon win over Maria Sakkari
PA
When asked about rediscovering her joy for tennis after a difficult couple of years, Raducanu said she was loving life on the tennis court once again.
“I think today was really up there with the most fun I have had on a tennis court, I really enjoyed every single moment,” she said.
“I was telling myself you don’t know how many times you are going to get the chance in your life to play in front of a full Centre Court so I’m really grateful for the support.
“I’m most proud of how focused and determined I was in every single point, in every single moment.
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“Maria [Sakkari] is a top 10 opponent. In a way, I came in with a free swing.
“But she is so tough, she has amazing weapons, I knew I had to battle. I tried to not let the scoreline affect me. You just have to play every point like it could be your last, not to be dramatic!
“Having your inner passion, win or lose, I’m just trying to win every day. Just giving your best.
“Some days you win the day and play great tennis then that can be enough. Some days you can play amazing tennis and that’s the key as long as you give you all every day.”
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On Saturday, Raducanu will get the honour of playing mixed doubles with Andy Murray.
Murray is set to retire from tennis completely after the Paris Olympics, meaning tomorrow could be his last match at SW19.
But Raducanu is looking forward to the experience, admitting she’ll try and learn from the 37-year-old’s experience.
“I’ll just take direction and follow his lead,” she said.
Emma Raducanu has now made it into the fourth round of Wimbledon
PA
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