Fri Oct 04 22:57:06 UTC 2024: ## Raducanu’s Comeback Stalled by Ankle Injury, Missing Wuhan Open
British tennis star Emma Raducanu has been forced to withdraw from the Wuhan Open due to an ankle injury, dealing another blow to her ongoing comeback. The 21-year-old, who had climbed back to No. 54 in the world rankings after a difficult period, sustained the injury during her last-16 match at the Korea Open last month.
Despite winning the match, Raducanu appeared hampered in her quarterfinal and ultimately retired hurt. She later confirmed the injury on social media, stating she had sprained ligaments in her foot and needed time to heal.
This marks Raducanu’s second consecutive tournament withdrawal, following her withdrawal from the China Open due to the injury. The 2021 US Open champion continues to search for her first tournament win since her historic victory in New York, and this latest setback further diminishes her hopes of returning to the world’s top 50 by the end of the year.
Raducanu’s fitness struggles have been a persistent problem for the past three years, leading her to take time out from competition to focus on strength and conditioning. This recent setback comes after she was criticized by former British tennis player Kieron Vorster for her limited playing time. Vorster argued that Raducanu’s “abbreviated schedule” was hindering her progress.
The withdrawal from the Wuhan Open raises questions about Raducanu’s participation in upcoming tournaments, including the Ningbo Open, Guangzhou Open, and Hong Kong Open. Her ability to return to action in time for these events remains unclear.
First Piper 