That Time Emma Raducanu Nearly Got Knocked Out by a Champagne Cork (Yes, Really)

By Lewis Barnett 1 July, 2025 5 mins read 42 Views

Look, I've covered some weird tennis stories in my time. But this one? This one takes the cake.

Emma Raducanu was cruising through her first-round match against 17-year-old Mimi Xu at Wimbledon yesterday - proper solid performance, 6-3, 6-3 - when some absolute legend in the crowd decided to pop open the champagne a bit too enthusiastically. The cork went flying straight onto Centre Court, missing our girl by inches.

Listen to this Article

When Celebration Goes Rogue

I mean, come on. You're watching tennis at the most prestigious tournament in the world and you nearly take out Britain's golden girl with flying debris from your Dom Pérignon? The audacity!

But here's the thing that got me - Raducanu didn't even flinch.

She just kept playing like nothing happened, sealed the win, and then had the absolute class to joke about it afterwards. "I'm glad people were having fun today," she said with that trademark grin. "I saw a champagne cork fly onto the court. I'm glad you guys are having a good time. Cheers to you."

Next Up: The Real Challenge

Now she's got Marketa Vondrousova waiting for her in round two tomorrow. That's a completely different beast - former Wimbledon champion, crafty left-hander, the works. No champagne corks needed to make that one tricky.

But honestly? After watching how Emma handled the flying cork situation, I'm thinking she's in the right headspace for whatever comes next. There's something to be said for a player who can laugh off the bizarre stuff and stay focused on what matters.

The Alcaraz Situation (Because You Know You're Curious)

Speaking of distractions - can we talk about this mixed doubles partnership with Carlos Alcaraz? The rumour mill has been working overtime since they announced they're teaming up, and I'll be honest, the chemistry is pretty obvious even from the press conferences.

They keep saying "we're just good friends" but Carlos basically admitted he's going to let Emma run the show on court. "She will be the boss!" he said. "I will do whatever she wants me to do."

Right. Just friends. Sure, Carlos.

The mixed doubles draw happens Wednesday, and I guarantee you it's going to be the most-watched doubles event in recent memory. Not just because of the tennis (though that'll be brilliant), but because everyone's going to be analyzing every glance, every celebration, every... well, everything.

Why This Actually Matters

Here's what I love about this whole champagne cork incident though - it shows Emma's found her groove again. Remember 2022? 2023? Those were rough years after her US Open triumph. The pressure, the expectations, the constant scrutiny.

But yesterday? She looked relaxed. Happy, even. The kind of player who can shrug off a near-miss with flying cork and turn it into a moment of connection with the crowd.

That's the Emma Raducanu we fell in love with back in 2021. And if she can keep that energy going against Vondrousova, this Wimbledon run might be something special.

Just maybe keep the champagne sealed until after the match, yeah?

Frequently Asked Questions

What role has tennis icons played in the popularization of the sport?

Tennis icons have played an important role in popularizing tennis around the world. Throughout history, charismatic players such as Billie Jean King and Pete Sampras have captured the imagination of the public. Their achievements on the court and personalities off it have not only drawn fans to the game but also inspired younger generations of players to take up this sport. Their legacy extends beyond their titles. They have shaped tennis culture and the marketplace.

What are the historical roots of tennis?

Tennis has its origins in the 12th century France. Monks used their hands to hit a ball called jeu de paume, which was played on courtyards of monasteries. Over time, rackets were introduced, and the game evolved into what we recognize today as tennis. In the 16th Century, tennis became very popular with the European nobility. Tennis has changed a lot since it was first invented, with the introduction in the 19th Century of lawn tennis and standardized rules.

What are some of the most important components to tennis etiquette.

Tennis etiquette, which reflects both respect and sportsmanship, is a fundamental part of the sport. Players are expected make accurate decisions about line rulings, to stay focused during serves, to remain quiet during rallies, as well as to shake hands after the match. Audiences are also expected to follow this etiquette and remain silent during matches, while applauding the good shots of both competitors. Tennis' integrity and gentlemanly traditions are maintained by adhering to these unwritten rules.

How has tennis evolved over the years?

Tennis equipment has undergone significant evolution since the game's early days. Original rackets were made of solid wood with string gut made from animal intestines. The technology has improved over time, introducing new materials like titanium, carbon fiber, and graphite. This makes rackets lighter, stronger, and more durable. Balls have also evolved, moving from hand-sewn rubber to manufactured pressurized balls that provide consistent bounce and flight. The evolution of the game has resulted in a more dynamic, athletic play.

Who was credited with standardizing today's game of tennis?

Major Walter Clopton Wingfield can be credited with a large part of the standardization of modern tennis. In 1873, Wingfield created a version of Sphairistike that was played at an hourglass shaped grass court. Wingfield’s version featured a simplified game scoring system, and similar equipment as is still used today. This version laid the groundwork for the modern rules of lawn-tennis. In 1877 the first Wimbledon Championships took place, establishing the structure and rules.

Statistics

Graphite became a popular material for tennis racquets in the 1980s, with over 90% of professional players now using graphite or graphite composite racquets.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) governs over 200 nations, indicating the sport's vast international governance structure and participation rate.
Since the Open Era began in 1968, allowing professional players to compete in the Grand Slams, the United States has produced the most Grand Slam singles titles across men's and women's competition.
The global tennis equipment market reached an estimated value of over 1 billion dollars, reflecting the sport's widespread popularity.
Lawn tennis, which evolved into the game we know today, adapted its point system from the jeu de paume, with theories suggesting its increments represent the face of a clock.

External Links

How To

Tennis History: How to Research it

In order to understand the history, it is important to explore different historical periods. From its beginnings as "real Tennis" in France of the 12th Century up until its modern day as lawn-tennis. You can find reference materials in libraries, databases online, and archives for sporting organizations. Some notable milestones are the codification by Major Walter Clopton Wingfield of the rules and the introduction of prestigious events like Wimbledon. Tennis history and resources from the International Tennis Hall of Fame can be invaluable to avid researchers.