Emma Raducanu paid the price for a slow start as she was beaten in the Queen’s final by Croatia’s Donna Vekic.
Raducanu, 23, was beaten 6-0 7-6 (8-6) by Vekic – a Wimbledon semi-finalist two years ago – and has still not won a title since the 2021 US Open.
Raducanu valiantly fought off three championship points at 6-5 in the second set – and saved a fourth on Vekic’s serve in the tie-break – but could not deny Vekic on the fifth as the Briton sprayed a forehand wide.
Vekic, 29, was a lucky loser – meaning she was beaten in qualifying and put into the draw when French Open semi-finalist Marta Kostyuk pulled out injured – and has taken full advantage of her fortune to lift the trophy.
Raducanu, ranked 42nd in the world, seemed hampered by a leg issue as Vekic cruised to the first set in less than half an hour.
The British number one rallied superbly to move a double break ahead in the second set, but twice failed to serve out victory.
Vekic, who is ranked 72nd but adept on the grass, is an experienced campaigner and held her nerve to level.
Both players looked to be tiring in a physical encounter, but Raducanu – backed by a vociferous home crowd – dug deep to force a tie-break.
Despite the defeat, Raducanu will take a lot of pride from an encouraging week on the British grass as she builds up towards Wimbledon.
The ranking points she has earned will push her up to the brink of the world’s top 30, which could be enough to ensure she is seeded at the All England Club.
“What a week – it’s been an incredible week for me to reach the final,” Raducanu said.
“Donna played superbly from start to finish.”