Emma Raducanu appeared to publicly criticise coach Andrew Richardson on her way to a heart-breaking 6-0, 6-7 (8-6) defeat in the Queen’s final.
The 23-year-old was overwhelmed by Donna Vekic’s blistering power in the opening exchanges in front of a home crowd at the Andy Murray Arena, losing the opening set to love.
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Raducanu was clearly annoyed with the lack of support from her cornerCredit: Getty
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Richardson only recently returned to her corner after a high-profile exit in 2021Credit: Getty
Vekic took the first set in just 29 minutes as Raducanu struggled to find any momentum.
And with the top-ranked Brit about to lose a seventh game in a row at the beginning of the second set, she aimed a clear dig at her box.
“Say something,” she shouted in their direction. “You’re saying nothing.”
Raducanu only recently reunited with Richardson last month, having gone through nine coaches in the last five years after their initial split.
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That exchange appeared to spark a comeback for the Englishwoman as she finally won a game and broke her opponent twice in the second set.
Raducanu engineered two opportunities to serve out the set and take the match to a decider, but Vekic staged a fightback of her own.
The Croatian won four consecutive games before Raducanu forced a nail-biting tie-break.
The world no. 42 saved four match points but ultimately lost 8-6 and missed out on what would have been only her second WTA title.
Raducanu positive after defeat
Raducanu is still searching for her first tournament win since her breakthrough victory at the US Open in 2021.
Nevertheless, she was upbeat after such a resilient display in her third match in 24 hours at the Queen’s Club.
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It was a runner-up finish for Raducanu despite an incredible fightbackCredit: AFP
She said: “It’s been an incredible week for me, making the final here, playing in my home city, in my home tournament.
“The support I have received all week has been incredible but I really want to take this opportunity to thank everyone.
“Today was a really tough match. Donna played extremely well from the start to the finish.
“So thanks for getting me through some tough moments this week and also for helping me push back in that second set.”
Meanwhile, the victorious Vekic had a classy message for Raducanu, who was vociferously supported by the crowd throughout.
The world no. 72 said: “Wow, first of all congrats Emma on such a great week. You are such an incredible player and I wish you and your team all of the best for the remainder of the grass season.
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Vekic, who knocked out Katie Boulter in the semis, played the role of party pooper again – but was classy in victoryCredit: Getty
“Growing up and watching the tour I was always jealous of the boys having a chance to play at this amazing club.
“I am very grateful that since last year we have had the opportunity to play here as well. Thank you to everyone who made this happen, we really enjoy it.”