Worrying scenes unfolded at the Ningbo Open on Thursday as former US Open champion Emma Raducanu required a medical timeout during her second-round match against France's Clara Burel, with officials seen checking her vital signs in a moment that alarmed fans and commentators alike.
A Sudden Stop in Play
The incident occurred with Raducanu trailing 4-1 in the deciding set of what had been a grueling contest. After a demanding rally, the 21-year-old Briton immediately signaled to the chair umpire, appearing visibly distressed and struggling for breath. The umpire promptly called for the tournament physio and doctor, who rushed onto the court to attend to the player.
For several minutes, the medical team was observed conducting a series of checks. A blood pressure cuff was applied to her arm, her pulse was taken, and her breathing was monitored. Raducanu sat with a towel over her head, leaning forward in her chair as the medical assessment took place. The on-court microphones picked up the doctor asking, "Emma, can you tell me what you're feeling right now?"
A Concerning Pattern
This is not the first time Raducanu's physical resilience has been tested since her return to the tour following multiple surgeries. Her 2024 season, while marked by flashes of her brilliant best, has been a story of managing her body through the rigors of competition. The nature of this medical intervention, however, was particularly alarming due to the direct checking of core vital signs, which suggests concerns beyond typical cramping or muscle fatigue.
Her recent physical challenges include:
- A stiff lower back that forced her to withdraw from the Korea Open just last week.
- A recurring wrist issue that required surgery last year and has needed careful management.
- An ankle injury that disrupted her pre-season preparations for 2024.
- Several matches throughout the year where she has appeared visibly exhausted in third sets.
The Aftermath and Official Word
After a medical timeout that lasted approximately ten minutes, Raducanu resumed play. However, her movement was clearly impaired, and she was unable to win another game, ultimately losing the match 6-1, 3-6, 1-6. She left the court without giving a post-match press conference, which tournament officials stated was on the advice of the medical team.
A brief statement was later released by the WTA on behalf of Raducanu's team: "Emma is being monitored by the medical team onsite. She felt unwell during the third set and underwent standard medical checks as a precaution. She will now focus on recovery." The statement did not specify the nature of the illness or the results of the vital sign checks.
Expert Analysis and Fan Reaction
Tennis analysts expressed deep concern for the young star. Former British number one Annabel Croft, commentating for the WTA, noted, "That was a very worrying sight. You don't see a doctor checking a player's blood pressure on court very often. This goes beyond simple fatigue; this is a systemic issue. The priority now must be her long-term health."
On social media, the reaction was one of overwhelming support mixed with anxiety. Fans highlighted the immense pressure and physical demands placed on Raducanu since her fairytale victory in New York as an 18-year-old qualifier. Many called for her to take an extended break from the tour to fully rebuild her physical conditioning.
The broader context of her schedule has also come under scrutiny. Since returning from surgery, Raducanu has played a packed schedule in an attempt to climb back up the rankings. Key aspects of this period include:
- A direct entry into the main draw of the Australian Open, where she lost in the second round.
- A strong run to the quarter-finals in Auckland at the start of the season.
- A notable victory over world number 22, Caroline Garcia, in Indian Wells.
- A consistent pattern of playing week-in, week-out on the WTA tour.
Looking Ahead
The immediate question is whether Raducanu will be fit to compete in the upcoming China Open in Beijing, a prestigious WTA 1000 event where she is scheduled to play. Her participation is now in serious doubt. This incident raises significant questions about her current training regimen and overall physical preparedness for the relentless grind of professional tennis.
Sports physician Dr. Amrita Ahluwalia, who has not treated Raducanu, offered a general perspective: "When we see vital signs being checked on court, it typically indicates a potential cardiovascular or systemic concern—dizziness, heart palpitations, severe shortness of breath. It's a prudent step by the medical team, but it certainly flags that the athlete is pushing their body to a potentially dangerous limit."
For Emma Raducanu, the path forward is fraught with challenge. The dazzling talent that captivated the world is undeniable, but these repeated physical setbacks threaten to derail a career still in its infancy. The scenes in Ningbo serve as a stark reminder that the ultimate victory is not just winning matches, but ensuring the athlete is healthy and robust enough to enjoy a long and successful career.
The hope now, from her team, rivals, and fans worldwide, is that this worrying episode acts as a catalyst for a renewed and careful focus on her physical well-being, potentially requiring a strategic pause to build a foundation that can withstand the tour's demands.