Emma Raducanu, the 22-year-old British tennis player and former US Open champion, has encountered another injury setback, withdrawing from the Auckland Open due to a back issue. This development disrupts her preparations for the upcoming Australian Open, as she has not participated in a WTA event since September.
Raducanu’s career has been marred by a series of injuries. In 2023, she retired from the Auckland Open after rolling her left ankle, leading to criticism of the court conditions. She also underwent surgeries on her wrists and ankle, causing her to miss significant portions of the season.
In an effort to enhance her physical resilience, Raducanu recently hired renowned fitness trainer Yutaka Nakamura, known for his work with Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka. Despite these measures, her latest withdrawal raises concerns about her ability to maintain fitness and form ahead of major tournaments.
Off the court, Raducanu’s substantial endorsement deals, estimated at £9 million, could be at risk if her performance does not improve. Sports finance experts suggest that continued absences from key tournaments may jeopardize these sponsorships.
As the Australian Open approaches, Raducanu faces a critical period in her career. Her persistent injury troubles not only hinder her participation in tournaments but also cast doubt on her long-term prospects in professional tennis.
