Emma Raducanu suffers fresh injury blow ahead of 2025 Australian Open

by Admin
December 31, 2024

Emma Raducanu has suffered another injury setback, withdrawing from her season-opening event in Auckland due to a back problem ahead of the Australian Open.

The 22-year-old former US Open champion was scheduled to face American Robin Montgomery in the Last 32 on Tuesday but pulled out on the morning of her match.

Despite recent training, Raducanu’s back has not recovered sufficiently following her travel to the southern hemisphere.

“I tried my best to be ready,” Raducanu said. “I love Auckland and the fans here but unfortunately picked up a back niggle and wont be ready in time.”

Emma Raducanu has been plagued by injuries ever since winning the US Open in 2021

The incident sparked controversy when Raducanu criticised the “slippery” indoor court conditions.

Tournament organisers were subsequently compelled to defend the quality of their substitute surfaces.

The British player left that event in tears following her injury.

READ MORE: Tyson Fury receives new world ranking after losing Oleksandr Usyk boxing rematch

Currently ranked world No 56, Raducanu faces entering the first Grand Slam of 2025 without competitive match practice.

The British player has not participated in a WTA tournament since late September.

Her preparation for the Australian Open has been disrupted by this latest injury concern, with some fans fearful she could be forced to pull out of the competition.

LATEST SPORTS NEWS:

Off the court, Raducanu’s recent activities have been disrupted by unforeseen circumstances.

In November, she spent her 22nd birthday confined to a hotel in Spain due to severe flooding in the Costa del Sol.

The tennis star has recently acknowledged that her on-court performance has been affected by commercial commitments.

Emma Raducanu will be hoping to win her second major at the 2025 Australian Open

Following her US Open triumph, Raducanu secured significant endorsement deals with major brands including British Airways, Dior, HSBC, Porsche, Tiffany & Co and Vodafone.

These commercial partnerships have demanded considerable time for promotional activities, including photoshoots and advertising campaigns.