Emma Raducanu withdraws from United Cup opener: Here's why
What's the story
British tennis star Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from her opening match at the 2026 United Cup due to an undisclosed injury. The 23-year-old was scheduled to face Japan's Naomi Osaka in Perth on Sunday but had to pull out. Katie Swan took her place in the women's singles event. Notably, Raducanu hasn't competed since October last year, announcing a premature end to the season.
Captain's optimism
Great Britain captain remains hopeful for Raducanu's return
Despite Raducanu's withdrawal, Great Britain captain Tim Henman is optimistic about her potential return to the tournament. "I've got to be honest, she was very, very close. It was not an easy decision. She had been building up and practicing really well. I don't think she is necessarily out of this tournament just yet," he told Australian broadcaster Nine.
Injury update
Raducanu's injury management and team spirit
Raducanu, who has been nursing a foot injury since the end of last season, chose not to give details about her condition. However, she did express hopefulness about her team's performance. "I think, at the end of the day, it's a team event and Katie's playing great, so it gives me an extra day," Raducanu said before Swan's match against Osaka.
Career
How Raducanu has fared so far
Despite her injury woes, Raducanu was seen cheering for the Great Britain side from her bench with coach Francisco Roig. The world number 29 had a mixed bag last year, compiling a 28-22 win-loss record. She concluded another season without a title. Raducanu shot to fame by winning the 2021 US Open. However, that remains her only women's singles honor so far.