Emma Raducanu has faced significant scrutiny lately due to her decision to skip tournaments and her ongoing struggles with injuries as the year progresses. However, it’s essential to recognize that this year still marks a noteworthy chapter for the US Open champion.
Former British No. 1 Laura Robson has stepped up to defend Raducanu following her latest injury announcement. Earlier this week, the 21-year-old took to X to share her withdrawal from next week’s Hong Kong Open, citing a lack of match fitness.
Since her retirement mid-match against Daria Kasatkina at the Korea Open last month, Raducanu has been sidelined due to a sprained ligament in her foot. She expressed in her post, “Whilst my foot is making good progress, I need a little more time before I am match fit.”
Currently ranked No. 55 in the world, Raducanu is focusing on being ready for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, where Anne Keothavong’s team will face Germany on November 15. Unfortunately, this marks the fifth tournament she has had to withdraw from since her injury, igniting discussions about her physical resilience in the demanding WTA circuit.
While some critics have raised doubts about Raducanu’s dedication to the sport, Robson argues that her progress this year, especially following surgery on both wrists and her ankle last year, is commendable. “When you think about the months that she’s missed, to climb to the ranking she is now is actually impressive. In that respect, she’s done really well,” Robson stated to Sky Sports, highlighting Raducanu’s ascent from outside the top 200 to just shy of the top 50.
Robson acknowledged that both Raducanu and her supporters wish for more consistent appearances. “It’s all about figuring out what works for you,” she added. She pointed out that Raducanu’s recent injury could not have come at a worse time, as it interrupted what could have been a crucial run of tournaments.
Robson also identified Raducanu’s decision to skip the qualifying rounds in Toronto back in August as a pivotal mistake. Since then, she has only competed in four matches. “The break came after Toronto, and with hindsight, she wishes she should’ve kept playing through,” Robson remarked. “It’s tough listening to her say that in New York because, as a player, you often feel you could’ve made different choices.”
For Raducanu, this experience is not just a series of setbacks but an opportunity for growth. “It’s still such a learning experience,” Robson noted. “She’s figuring out what works for her, where she wants to compete, and how many tournaments to enter.”
Recently, Raducanu’s game has adopted a more aggressive style, a development Robson views positively, while also recognizing the challenges of maintaining consistency. “When you look at her results when she plays well, she can beat almost anyone,” Robson emphasized. “She’s a fantastic player with a dynamic game, but achieving that level consistently is key.”