Katie Boulter faces major Australian Open risk as ranking plummets but Emma Raducanu gets reprieve

Katie Boulter could be on the brink of missing out on direct entry into the 2026 Australian Open after a sharp slide in the WTA rankings — while Emma Raducanu looks set to benefit from a timely reprieve.

As of the latest rankings update (October 31, 2025), Boulter has dropped to World No. 78, putting her automatic place at risk ahead of the first Grand Slam of 2026. With the cut-off for main-draw entries typically around World No. 104, the British No. 1 still has time to recover — but her current form and injury concerns are worrying signs.

Why Boulter’s Spot Is Under Threat

• Early exits in recent tournaments have cost her crucial points.
• She is set to lose 280 points from last year’s deep run in Adelaide.
• Unless she finds form during the November indoor swing, she may face qualifying rounds in Melbourne.

Analysts warn that even one more early defeat could see Boulter fall outside the Top 80, making wildcard reliance a real possibility.

The Raducanu Reprieve

Meanwhile, Emma Raducanu — who’s been carefully managing her comeback after surgery — has received a boost. Her protected ranking (No. 68) ensures automatic entry into the Australian Open main draw, regardless of her current live position.

Raducanu has also gained valuable match practice in exhibition events and is targeting a full fitness return for the start of the 2026 season.

What It Means for British Tennis

If Boulter fails to qualify automatically, she could still be offered a main-draw wildcard by Tennis Australia — especially given her popularity and recent performances on Australian soil. But with Raducanu, Harriet Dart, and Jodie Burrage all in contention, competition for those spots will be fierce.

Both players are expected to feature in the Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers later this month — a final chance for Boulter to rebuild momentum before the Grand Slam entry deadline.

Australia has been kind to Boulter in the past, but this time, she’ll need a late surge to make sure she’s back under the bright lights of Melbourne Park without needing help from the wildcard committee.