Surreal Debut: Lily Miyazaki Triumphs in US Open Opener
In a thrilling US Open debut, Lily Miyazaki described her victory as “surreal.” The 27-year-old Briton, reminiscent of Emma Raducanu’s success, defeated Russian Margarita Betova with a 6-3 6-3 scoreline.
Ranked 199th in the world, Miyazaki’s achievement was a confidence boost after qualifying. Though she might not replicate Raducanu’s fairy-tale title, she earned a substantial £100,000 reward and a second-round clash against Olympic champion Belinda Bencic.
Miyazaki acknowledged Raducanu’s inspiring feat, acknowledging how it motivated players. Although not intimately acquainted with Raducanu, they had practiced together at the National Tennis Centre.
While other British players enjoyed a day off, Miyazaki faced off against experienced opponent Betova. Overcoming an early setback, she rallied with six consecutive wins, securing victory with her second match point.
Looking ahead to her match against 15th seed Bencic, Miyazaki expressed excitement. Having observed Bencic extensively, Miyazaki is prepared for a formidable challenge. She humorously recalled facing Bencic during their childhood in Switzerland and anticipated a tough encounter.
Re-reported from the article originally published in My Khel
