Emma Raducanu’s recent decisions to skip several tournaments have sparked controversy and raised questions about her commitment to the sport. Notably, she withdrew from the Auckland Open in December 2024 due to a back issue, affecting her Australian Open preparations. She also faced criticism for opting out of tournaments in Toronto and Cincinnati, with discussions suggesting that her ranking might not have secured her direct entries, necessitating qualifications or wildcards.
Former U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick labeled Raducanu’s choice to bypass qualifiers as “strange,” advising that playing in such events could be beneficial for her ranking and experience.
Additionally, Martina Navratilova emphasized the importance of Raducanu taking control of her career, focusing on fitness, and committing to a consistent tournament schedule to regain her form.
These developments have led to discussions about Raducanu’s priorities and the potential impact on her professional relationships within the tennis community. Her recent actions contrast with her earlier career, where she achieved remarkable success, including winning the 2021 U.S. Open.
The tennis world watches closely, awaiting her next steps and hoping for a return to consistent performance on the court.
