Emma Raducanu keeps making waves as she is named BT Sport Action Woman of the Year

Emma Raducanu continued her remarkable breakthrough when she was crowned BT Sport Action Woman of the Year on Monday night.

Raducanu, 19, became the first qualifier ever to win a grand-slam singles title when she triumphed at the US Open in September.

That victory, which was the first by a British woman since Virginia Wade in 1977, followed her debut at Wimbledon where she reached the fourth round.

Chelsea and England footballer Lauren James was crowned Rising Star of the Year, while she also claimed the Team of the Year award alongside her Chelsea team-mates. Paula Dunn, head coach of the British Athletics para team, picked up a lifetime achievement gong at an awards ceremony held in association with the Telegraph.

Raducanu has recently begun a pre-season training block as she gears up for her first full season on the WTA tour as a professional.

“I just wanted to say a massive thank you for voting me as your Action Woman of the Year and I’d really like to congratulate all the other amazing nominees on their incredible achievements over the last 12 months,” said Raducanu, who was presented with the award by Kate Richardson-Walsh.

“For me to win this achievement is an absolute honour, so I just wanted to say thank you and hope you’re all having a brilliant evening. I’ll see you soon.”

Other nominees for the main award included Dame Sarah Storey, Laura Kenny, Emily Campbell, Rachael Blackmore and Kadeena Cox.

Accepting Chelsea’s team award, having completed a Super League, FA Cup and League Cup treble in 2020-21, Fran Kirby said: “We just want to say a massive thank you. It was an amazing year for the club, everyone had an amazing time and to win now has definitely topped it off.

“Sorry we can’t be there to celebrate with you but we’re super, super proud to win this award and I hope that you all have a lovely evening.”

Watch: Emma Raducanu made winning return to UK in ATP Champions Tour