Sat Sep 06 21:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Great Britain team for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals to compete in the Korea Open on the WTA tour. Raducanu and her new coach believe that playing on the WTA Tour is best for her long-term development. Raducanu’s withdrawal is a blow to the GB team, and the LTA has expressed disappointment. Fran Jones has been added to the team.

**News Article:**

**Raducanu Skips Billie Jean King Cup Finals for WTA Tour, Sparking LTA Disappointment**

**SHENZHEN, China** – British tennis star Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Great Britain team slated to compete in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen, China later this month. The decision has prompted disappointment from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), as Raducanu prioritizes competing in the Korea Open on the WTA Tour.

Raducanu, who played a key role in Great Britain’s semi-final run in the Billie Jean King Cup last year, will instead pursue a wildcard entry into the Korea Open in Seoul, citing the move as beneficial for her long-term development under new coach Francisco Roig. The pair are aiming to build on their partnership after starting together in Cincinnati last month.

“Of course we are disappointed,” said an LTA spokesperson. “However, we believe we have a great team and we’re looking forward to competing in Shenzhen.”

Raducanu’s absence deals a blow to Great Britain’s chances in the Finals, which begin on September 18 with a quarter-final match against Japan. She won all three of her singles matches when Great Britain reached the semi-finals of the competition in Malaga last year.

World number 89 Fran Jones has been added to the team joining Katie Boulter, Sonay Kartal, and Jodie Burrage. Captain Anne Keothavong has the option to add one more player to the squad.

The ITF moved the Finals to earlier in the season, hoping it would attract top players to play. Raducanu’s decision however, shows that some players are prioritizing the WTA tour and personal schedules. Raducanu will have ranking points to defend in Seoul, having reached the quarter-finals last year.

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