Emma Raducanu Retires from Wuhan Open First Round vs. Ann Li Due to Illness
Emma Raducanu’s Wuhan Open debut ended abruptly on October 7, 2025, as the British No. 1 retired from her first-round match against American Ann Li while trailing 6-1, 4-1 in the second set, citing illness amid sweltering conditions. The 22-year-old, ranked No. 30, appeared visibly unwell, requiring a medical timeout for blood pressure and vitals checks before shaking hands with Li and withdrawing. This marks another setback for Raducanu, who had been dealing with mental and physical challenges following recent match-point collapses at the China Open and Korea Open.
The Match: A One-Sided Struggle
Raducanu entered Wuhan as an unseeded player after a third-round exit in Beijing, where she squandered three match points against Jessica Pegula. Facing Li (No. 46), whom she had beaten 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-1 at Eastbourne in June, Raducanu started slowly, losing the first set 6-1 amid errors and low energy. Li fired four aces and dominated returns, while Raducanu struggled with four double faults early in the second set.
In the second set, Raducanu broke Li initially but faltered, appearing dazed and bending over before calling for medical help. After vitals checks, she retired, handing Li the win and a second-round matchup against Ekaterina Alexandrova. Li graciously wished Raducanu a quick recovery, noting she “wasn’t feeling good.”
Context: Raducanu’s Recent Struggles
Raducanu’s retirement adds to a challenging end to her 2025 season, marked by mental fragility after squandering match points in Seoul (two vs. Krejcikova) and Beijing (three vs. Pegula), extending her top-10 losing streak to nine. Despite 28 wins and a career-high No. 30 ranking, the heat and humidity in Wuhan (35°C, 60%+ humidity) exacerbated her issues, similar to heat-related struggles in Shanghai for ATP players. Under coach Francisco Roig, she’s focused on serve stability, but this exit raises questions about her fitness for the WTA Finals.
Reactions: Concern for Raducanu’s Season
Social media reflected sympathy and worry, with fans noting: “Emma’s been battling demons—hope she recovers soon.” Annabel Croft, on Sky Sports, highlighted the conditions: “Raducanu looked out of sorts… the heat took its toll.” Li advances, but Raducanu’s early exit—her first retirement since 2023—could impact her momentum heading into the WTA Finals in Riyadh. At 22, her talent remains evident, but addressing these “unprecedented” setbacks is crucial.
