Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has received blunt advice regarding her ongoing struggles with injuries. Several tennis experts and former players have urged Raducanu to take a more cautious and long-term approach to her fitness and recovery in order to “end her injury curse.”
Raducanu has faced numerous setbacks since her breakthrough victory, including wrist, ankle, and back injuries, which have hampered her ability to maintain consistency on the tour. Critics and advisors have emphasized that the young British player needs to focus more on building her physical resilience, improving her conditioning, and taking the necessary time off to fully heal rather than rushing her return to competition.
Some of the advice she has been given includes:
- Strength and conditioning: Raducanu has been advised to work with specialized trainers to strengthen her body and improve her fitness, particularly focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
- Mental approach: Experts have pointed out that managing the mental strain of recurring injuries is crucial for her long-term success. Raducanu has been encouraged to stay patient and avoid feeling pressured to rush back to the court too soon.
- Planning a smarter schedule: By carefully managing her tournament schedule, taking more rest between events, and avoiding overloading her body, Raducanu could reduce the risk of reinjury.
The overall message is that Raducanu should prioritize her health and recovery over immediate results. At just 22, she has time on her side, and the key to her future success lies in building a foundation that ensures longevity in the sport.
