Tennis star Emma Raducanu to collect her MBE

She was the first British woman to win a grand slam since Virginia Wade in 1977.

Published Nov 29, 2022

Last updated Nov 29, 2022

File photo dated 11-09-2021 of Great Britainâs Emma Raducanu holds the trophy as she celebrates winning the womenâs singles final on day twelve of the US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows in 2021

Tennis sensation Emma Raducanu is to collect her MBE on Tuesday.

She was awarded the honour after an incredible US Open victory in 2021, making her the first British woman to win a grand slam since Virginia Wade in 1977, and the first qualifier of any nationality to do so.

The victory over Canadian – and fellow teenager – Leylah Fernandez 6-4 6-3 at Flushing Meadows came when she was just 18 years old.

Emma Raducanu in action against Alize Cornet during day two of the US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York on August 30, 2022 — Emma Raducanu was the first British woman to win a grand slam since Virginia Wade in 1977 (PA)

She is due to collect her award, given for services to tennis, at a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Isaac Julien, the Turner prize-nominated artist and filmmaker, is also set to collect his knighthood for services to diversity and inclusion in art.

Former footballer Gary Bennett whose work with the Show Racism The Red Card group is among the other MBE recipients, along with former Test cricketer Hugh Morris. The batsman has been awarded an MBE for services to cricket and charity.