Emma Raducanu is encouraged by her preparations for the US Open after pushing Aryna Sabalenka close in a competitive defeat in Cincinnati. Raducanu was beaten in a third-set tiebreak by the world No 1 having battled back from a set down to force a decider, and matched Sabalenka virtually stroke for stroke throughout.

Aryna Sabalenka edged out Emma Raducanu in a three-set thriller in Cincinnati, and the world No. 1 made a surprising comment about her fitness levels after the match

Sabalenka's staggering tiebreak record illustrates her play under pressure but also her vulnerability in matches this year.