Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has been contending with injury concerns as she prepares for the 2025 Australian Open. She recently withdrew from the Auckland Open due to a back injury, raising questions about her readiness for Melbourne.
Despite these setbacks, Raducanu has been practicing at Melbourne Park, including a session with Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, indicating potential improvement in her condition.
The Australian Open draw has presented Raducanu with a challenging path. In the first round, she is set to face a formidable opponent, and potential subsequent matches could include top-seeded players. This difficult draw, combined with lingering injury concerns, poses a significant test for the British player.
Tennis legend John McEnroe has expressed concerns about Raducanu’s mentality, suggesting that her mindset might be contributing to her injury issues.
Raducanu’s recent history has been marked by various injuries, including wrist surgeries and an ankle injury, which have limited her participation in tournaments. Her current world ranking stands at No. 60, reflecting the impact of these physical challenges on her performance.
As the Australian Open approaches, Raducanu’s ability to compete at her highest level remains uncertain. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how she navigates her challenging draw and whether she can overcome her injury struggles to make a deep run in the tournament.