LONDON — Emma Raducanu has provided a reassuring update on her fitness after sparking concerns about a potential injury during her doubles match with Katie Boulter at the Cinch Championships at Queen’s Club. The British duo secured a hard-fought victory in their opening-round match, but Raducanu’s visible discomfort raised questions about her readiness for Wimbledon.
Raducanu and Boulter, playing together for the first time, defeated the experienced pair of Diane Parry and Xinyu Wang 6-4, 6-4. However, the match was not without drama, as Raducanu appeared to struggle with movement at times, clutching her lower back and wincing after certain shots. Fans and pundits immediately speculated whether the 2021 US Open champion was nursing an injury ahead of the grass-court Grand Slam.
Raducanu Addresses Injury Concerns
Speaking after the match, Raducanu downplayed the concerns, attributing her discomfort to the physical demands of transitioning to grass-court tennis. "It’s just a bit of stiffness," she explained. "The body is adjusting to the surface, and doubles is a different kind of movement. I’m feeling good overall and looking forward to the next match." The 21-year-old confirmed she had no plans to withdraw from the tournament and remained optimistic about her Wimbledon preparations.
Raducanu’s coach, Nick Cavaday, echoed her sentiments, telling reporters: "Emma’s been training well, and these are normal adjustments when switching surfaces. She’s in a good place physically, and we’re taking it day by day." The British star has been cautious with her schedule this year after undergoing multiple surgeries in 2023, including wrist and ankle procedures.
Doubles Success with Boulter
Despite the injury scare, Raducanu and Boulter delivered an impressive performance, showcasing their chemistry on court. The pair, who have been close friends since childhood, capitalized on their aggressive baseline play and strong net presence. Boulter, the British No. 1 in singles, praised Raducanu’s resilience: "Emma’s a fighter. She pushed through some tough moments, and we really enjoyed playing together. It’s special to share the court with someone you’ve known for so long."
Key highlights from their victory included:
- Raducanu’s precise serving, including three aces in crucial moments
- Boulter’s dominant forehand winners, particularly down the line
- Their ability to break serve twice in the second set to seal the win
Looking Ahead to Wimbledon
With Wimbledon just weeks away, Raducanu’s fitness remains a focal point. The tournament holds special significance for her, as it was where she made her breakthrough in 2021, reaching the fourth round as a wildcard. Since then, injuries have hampered her progress, but she remains determined to compete at her best. "Wimbledon is always a highlight of my year," she said. "I’m taking it step by step, but I’m excited to be back on grass and playing in front of the home crowd."
Boulter, who is also preparing for Wimbledon, added: "Emma’s a champion, and she knows how to handle these situations. We’re both focused on putting in the work and enjoying the process."
Expert Opinions on Raducanu’s Form
Tennis analysts have weighed in on Raducanu’s performance and prospects. Former British No. 1 Tim Henman noted: "Emma’s movement looked a bit restricted, but her shot-making was sharp. If she manages her body well, she can be dangerous at Wimbledon."
Meanwhile, pundit and ex-player Laura Robson highlighted the benefits of doubles play: "Doubles is a great way to sharpen reflexes and net play. For Emma, it’s about building confidence and match sharpness."
Raducanu and Boulter will face their next doubles opponents later this week, with fans eagerly watching for further updates on Raducanu’s condition. As the grass-court season heats up, all eyes will be on whether the young star can recapture the form that made her a Grand Slam champion.
In conclusion, while injury concerns briefly surfaced, Raducanu’s positive update and strong performance alongside Boulter suggest she remains on track for Wimbledon. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire, and British tennis fans will be hoping for a memorable summer from their homegrown talent.