Rising Star's Grand Stage Arrival

Welsh teenager Mimi Xu (17) will make her Wimbledon main-draw debut against British No.1 Emma Raducanu in a historic first-round clash at the All England Club. The wildcard recipient, currently ranked WTA 317, earned her place through impressive grass-court performances including two top-100 scalps this season.

From Academy Viewer to Center Court Contender

Xu vividly recalls watching Raducanu's 2021 US Open victory with fellow Loughborough National Academy trainees:

"We crowded around that TV completely awestruck. Emma showed what's possible through dedication. She's redefined British tennis aspirations."

Academic Excellence Meets Athletic Prowess

Balancing elite sport with education:

• Completed A-Level biology exams during Nottingham Open
• Developed time management skills praised by coaches
• Plans to pursue sports science degree post-tournament

Historic British Teen Trio Makes Wimbledon History

Xu joins 16-year-olds Hannah Klugman and Mika Stojsavljevic as the first trio of British U18 women to compete simultaneously at Wimbledon:

Xu's Tactical Preparation

• 25 hours weekly on grass-specific movement drills
• Customized nutrition plan for 3-hour match endurance
• Mental conditioning with sports psychologists

"This isn't just about testing my skills," Xu stated. "It's about showing young athletes they can balance education with elite sport."

The Road Ahead

While Raducanu remains favorite, Xu's powerful baseline game and 112mph serve could trouble the 2021 US Open champion. The match potentially marks the first all-British women's Wimbledon clash since 2018.

Coverage begins 30 June across BBC platforms including iPlayer and the Sport app.