LONDON — British tennis sensation Emma Raducanu has suffered an injury setback ahead of Wimbledon, raising concerns about her fitness for the prestigious Grand Slam. The 2021 US Open champion withdrew from her first-round match at the Rothesay International in Eastbourne due to a back issue, casting doubt on her preparations for the All England Club.
Raducanu, who was set to face world No. 47 Daria Snigur in Eastbourne, pulled out just hours before the match. Tournament organizers confirmed her withdrawal, stating, "Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Rothesay International due to a back injury. We wish her a speedy recovery." The 21-year-old had been using the grass-court event as a key warm-up for Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.
Injury Concerns Mount Ahead of Wimbledon
Raducanu’s withdrawal marks another frustrating chapter in her injury-plagued season. The British No. 3 has struggled with recurring physical issues since her breakthrough at Flushing Meadows, undergoing multiple surgeries in 2023. While she has shown flashes of brilliance this year—including a strong run at Indian Wells—her fitness remains a persistent concern.
Sources close to Raducanu’s camp revealed that the back problem emerged during training earlier this week. "She felt stiffness and discomfort during practice, and the medical team advised caution," an insider said. Raducanu had previously battled wrist and ankle injuries, but this marks her first significant back issue.
Impact on Queen’s Club and Wimbledon Prep
The timing of the injury is particularly concerning, as Raducanu had planned a busy grass-court schedule to regain momentum. Key aspects of her preparation now in jeopardy include:
- Limited match practice before Wimbledon
- Missed opportunity to test her game against top grass-court players
- Potential disruption to her serve and movement due to back stiffness
Raducanu had also accepted a wildcard into the prestigious LTA’s Rothesay Classic in Birmingham but withdrew days before the event, citing "general soreness and fatigue." Her participation at Wimbledon now hinges on her recovery over the next week.
Medical Experts Weigh In
Sports physiotherapist Dr. Sarah Johnson explained that back injuries can be particularly tricky for tennis players. "The rotational forces in tennis place immense strain on the lower back. If Emma is dealing with muscular tightness or a minor disc issue, rushing back could worsen it," she said.
Raducanu’s team has not disclosed the exact nature of the injury, but insiders suggest it is not considered severe. However, with Wimbledon just days away, even a minor setback could derail her campaign. The All England Club has granted her a wildcard, sparing her the pressure of qualifying.
Fan and Pundit Reactions
British tennis legend Tim Henman expressed cautious optimism, telling the BBC: "Emma’s resilience has been tested before. If anyone can bounce back, it’s her—but she must prioritize long-term health over short-term gains."
Fans took to social media with mixed reactions. Some urged patience, while others questioned her durability. One supporter tweeted: "Three years of constant injuries—when will we see the real Emma again?"
Looking Ahead
Raducanu’s team remains hopeful she will recover in time for Wimbledon. A spokesperson stated: "Emma is undergoing treatment and will reassess in the coming days. Her focus is on being ready for SW19."
Should she compete, Raducanu will aim to replicate her 2022 fourth-round run at Wimbledon. However, if the injury persists, another withdrawal could further delay her quest to rediscover the form that made her a global star.
For now, the tennis world waits anxiously. As one analyst put it: "Emma’s talent is undeniable, but her body keeps betraying her. Wimbledon needs her—but only if she’s fit."