Raducanu’s DC Open Run Ends in Semi-Finals Loss to Kalinskaya

Emma Raducanu’s promising run at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open came to a halt in the semi-finals, as the British No.1 was defeated in straight sets by Anna Kalinskaya, 6-4, 6-3. Despite showing glimpses of her best tennis throughout the tournament, Raducanu was unable to break through the Russian’s rhythm and paid the price for missed opportunities on key points.

The match, lasting one hour and 34 minutes, saw Raducanu deliver five aces and showcase improved aggression on serve. However, she failed to convert any of her four break-point chances, while Kalinskaya capitalized on the limited chances she had—seizing the momentum in both sets with precise ball placement and consistent depth from the baseline.

Kalinskaya keeps her cool, denies Raducanu-Fernandez sequel

Heading into the match, fans were hopeful for a high-profile rematch of the 2021 US Open final between Raducanu and Leylah Fernandez—an iconic moment in modern women’s tennis. However, Kalinskaya played the spoiler with a composed performance that shut down any hopes of a sequel.

Ranked 48th in the world, Kalinskaya has been enjoying a consistent stretch of form in 2025. She entered the DC Open semifinal without dropping a set and maintained her streak against Raducanu by keeping rallies short and forcing errors from the Briton.

The Russian will now face Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in the final on Sunday. Fernandez booked her spot with a stunning three-tiebreak victory over third seed Elena Rybakina, lasting over three hours and considered one of the matches of the tournament.

Raducanu’s return to form still shows promise

Although the loss will sting, Raducanu’s campaign in Washington was a clear step forward. The 21-year-old regained the British No.1 ranking earlier in the week after her win over Naomi Osaka, a two-time US Open champion. She followed that with a gritty quarter-final win over Maria Sakkari, battling back from a break down to win 6-4, 7-5.

These victories marked her first semifinal appearance at a WTA 500 event since her breakthrough season in 2021 and offered a glimpse into her rebuilding process. With her fitness improving and confidence returning, Raducanu could be a threat in the upcoming North American swing.

A final to watch: Fernandez vs Kalinskaya

The women’s final in Washington now sets up an intriguing clash between Fernandez and Kalinskaya—two players who have been in sharp form all week. Fernandez, who has knocked out top-seeded Jessica Pegula and Wimbledon champion Rybakina, enters the final with considerable momentum and experience in high-stakes matches.

Kalinskaya, meanwhile, will be seeking her first career WTA title, having fallen short in two previous finals. Her disciplined baseline game and mental poise have carried her this far, but she’ll need to raise her level once more to stop a surging Fernandez.

Momentum and opportunities ahead

As the US Open Series continues, both Raducanu and Kalinskaya have plenty to build on. For Raducanu, the DC Open proved that she remains capable of competing with the tour’s best. For Kalinskaya, the final presents not just a chance for silverware, but a career-defining breakthrough.

Fernandez, now in her third WTA final in 12 months, will aim to cap off her impressive week with a title that could boost her momentum heading into Toronto and Cincinnati.