PARIS — British tennis star Emma Raducanu has revealed she is "not 100% fit" ahead of her French Open return but has fought through her "biggest phobia" — a fear of needles — to ensure she can compete at Roland Garros.
The 2021 US Open champion, who has struggled with injuries since her breakthrough Grand Slam win, admitted she underwent multiple medical injections to treat lingering wrist and ankle issues. Raducanu, 21, described the process as "one of the hardest things I’ve had to overcome" due to her severe trypanophobia (fear of needles).
Raducanu’s Needle Phobia: A Personal Battle
Raducanu has been open about her struggles with medical procedures involving needles. In a press conference ahead of her first-round match, she explained: "I’ve had some injections to help with the pain. It’s my biggest phobia, but I knew I had to do it to play here. It was non-negotiable."
The former world No. 10 has faced multiple setbacks since her historic US Open triumph, including surgeries on both wrists and an ankle in 2023. Her latest treatments included:
- Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for tissue healing
- Nerve-blocking injections for pain management
French Open Comeback: A Test of Resilience
Raducanu, currently ranked No. 212 after her lengthy injury layoff, received a wildcard entry into the French Open. She faces world No. 82 Rebecca Šramková in the opening round — her first Grand Slam appearance since the 2023 Australian Open.
Despite her physical challenges, Raducanu remains determined. "I’m not at my peak yet, but I’ve worked incredibly hard to get here," she said. "Every match is a bonus. I’m just grateful to be back."
Medical Team’s Role in Her Recovery
Raducanu credited her medical team for helping her manage the injections. "They’ve been amazing — distracting me, talking me through it. I still hate it, but I know it’s necessary," she admitted. Sports psychologist Dr. Rebecca Symes, who has worked with Raducanu, noted that needle phobia is common among athletes but rarely discussed publicly.
Fan and Peer Reactions
Fans and fellow players have praised Raducanu’s transparency. Former British No. 1 Laura Robson told the BBC: "It takes real courage to face a phobia like that, especially under public scrutiny. Emma’s honesty will help others struggling with similar fears."
Raducanu’s opponent, Šramková, also expressed admiration: "I respect her so much for pushing through. Injuries and fears are part of the sport, but not everyone talks about them."
Looking Ahead: Raducanu’s 2024 Season
While Raducanu remains cautious about her fitness, she has set her sights on a full return to the WTA Tour. Her schedule includes:
- Potential grass-court appearances ahead of Wimbledon
- Olympic Games consideration (pending eligibility)
- A gradual rebuild of her ranking
She emphasized patience: "I’m taking it step by step. Right now, just being here at Roland Garros feels like a win."
Conclusion: A Story of Perseverance
Raducanu’s journey back to competitive tennis highlights both the physical and mental hurdles athletes face. Her willingness to confront a deep-seated fear for the sake of her career has resonated widely. As she steps onto Court Simonne-Mathieu for her first-round match, the tennis world will be watching — not just for the result, but for the resilience she embodies.
"I don’t know how far I’ll go," Raducanu said with a smile. "But I’ve already won by showing up."