LONDON — British tennis star Emma Raducanu has provided a significant health update after undergoing minor surgery on both of her wrists and one ankle, confirming she will miss the remainder of the 2023 season, including Wimbledon and the US Open, where she famously triumphed in 2021.
A Season Disrupted by Persistent Injuries
Raducanu's 2023 campaign has been plagued by physical problems, limiting her to just five tournaments since her last competitive match in Stuttgart in April. Her withdrawal from the Madrid Open in late April was the first major sign of trouble, and she subsequently missed the entire French Open and the British grass-court season, a crushing blow for the home favourite. In a statement posted to her social media channels, Raducanu outlined the necessity of the medical intervention.
"It is safe to say the last 10 months have been difficult as I dealt with a recurring injury on a bone of both hands," Raducanu wrote. "I tried my best to manage the pain and play through it for most of this year and the end of last year by reducing practice load dramatically, missing weeks of training as well as cutting last season short to try and heal it."
The Decision for Surgery and the Road to Recovery
After attempting various non-surgical treatments, the decision was made to proceed with operations. The procedures were performed successfully, according to her team, and Raducanu is now facing a period of immobilization and intensive rehabilitation. Her statement provided a candid look at the immediate post-surgery reality and her determination to return stronger.
"I'm having a minor procedure done on both hands to resolve the issues. I'm disappointed to share I will be out for the rest of the year and will have another operation," she confirmed, referring to the separate ankle surgery. "I am determined to come back stronger and fitter than ever."
The specific nature of the injuries has been clarified as:
- A recurring bone injury in both wrists.
- A minor issue with her ankle, requiring a separate procedure.
The decision to address all issues at once, while extending her time away from the court, is seen as a strategic move to build a more robust physical foundation for the future.
Medical Perspective on the Procedures
While Raducanu's team has not released specific medical details, sports orthopaedic specialists suggest that recurring bone injuries in the wrist often relate to stress reactions or complications from previous impacts. The simultaneous ankle surgery, described as minor, indicates a proactive approach to ensure no lingering issues remain when she begins her comeback. The key phases of her recovery are expected to be:
- Immobilization & Initial Healing: A period of rest and protection for the surgical sites.
- Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy: Gradual reintroduction of movement and strength training.
- Sport-Specific Training: Rebuilding tennis-specific movements, grip strength, and on-court endurance.
Support from the Tennis World and Looking Ahead
The news has been met with an outpouring of support from fellow players, fans, and tennis institutions. The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and the All England Club both issued statements wishing Raducanu a speedy recovery. Her statement concluded with a message of gratitude and optimism for her eventual return to the sport that catapulted her to global fame.
"I will be ruled out for the rest of the year. Thank you for all the support and messages, it really does mean a lot. I am determined to come back stronger and fitter than ever."
This extended break means Raducanu will be absent from the tour for approximately six to eight months. Her protected ranking of No. 103 will allow her some entry into tournaments upon her return, but she will likely require wild cards for major events. The focus for the 20-year-old is now unequivocally on a full and complete recovery, with the goal of a return in time for the 2024 Australian summer season.
A Critical Juncture for a Young Career
This forced hiatus represents a significant moment in Raducanu's young career. Since her historic, fairytale run to the US Open title as a qualifier in 2021, she has navigated immense pressure, frequent coaching changes, and a series of niggling injuries. This extended period away from the spotlight, while challenging, could provide a necessary reset. It offers an opportunity to heal not only physically but also to develop her game away from the relentless scrutiny of the tour.
The tennis world now waits, hopeful that this talented athlete can overcome this significant hurdle. The statement from Emma Raducanu was not just a health update; it was a declaration of intent, a promise to her fans and herself that this is not the end, but rather a necessary step in a long and promising journey.