TENNIS star Emma Raducanu has revealed how ‘extremely grateful’ she was after Manchester United star Marcus Rashford comforted her after she fell ill Wimbledon.
Raducanu, who will play in the quarter-finals of the US Open on Wednesday, was unable to continue her fourth-round clash against Australian Alja Tomljanovic at 6-4 3-0 down.
Raducanu released an emotional statement citing breathing difficulties during her huge match on No1 Court.
Rashford, 23, has revealed he suffered a similar problem during an Under-16s game against Wales seven years ago.
He then tweeted that the ‘country was proud’ of her and wished her the best for the future.
Speaking to Vogue about the act of kindness, the 18 year old said: “[It was] very comforting in that moment.
“I was feeling like I let people down, so for him to reassure me like that – I was extremely grateful.”
Rashford tweeted: “It happened to me playing for the national team in U16s against Wales. I remember it to this day.
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“No explanation for it and it never happened again.
“You should be very proud of yourself. The country is proud of you.
“Glad to read your feeling better. Onwards and upwards.”
Andy Murray and Gary Lineker also leapt to Raducanu’s defence following fierce criticism from John McEnroe, Kevin Pietersen and Piers Morgan over her ‘mental toughness’.
Raducanu sought medical treatment inside the bowels of No1 Court but decided it was best to withdraw without completing the rest of the match.
The talented Brit also had some kind words herself for fellow tennis star Naomi Osaka.
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The Japanese player, 23, quit the French Open in June following a refusal to speak to the media citing mental health concerns – for which she was fined £10,600.
Raducanu said: “If that’s the best thing for her health, mental health and wellbeing then I think that that’s the right thing to do.
“Because at the end of the day, you’re on this journey alone, no matter how many people are in your corner.”
But Raducanu is full of love for the sport that has transformed her from a shy little girl’ to a major talent.
She added: “I was a very shy little girl who didn’t talk much at all.
“And through playing sport, and having to be bold on the court and fearless and fight, it’s given me inner strength.
“If you have that, then you can really achieve whatever you want.”
See the full feature in the October issue of British Vogue available via digital download and on newsstands Friday 10th September.
