Emma Raducanu’s withdrawal from the opening match of her season at the 2026 United Cup due to a foot injury has left fans concerned about her availability for the upcoming matches. Great Britain captain, Tim Henman, provided an update on Raducanu’s condition and chances of playing in the next match against Maria Sakkari.
Raducanu was set to face Naomi Osaka in the first round of the United Cup but had to withdraw just an hour before the match due to the persistent foot injury that has been bothering her for the past two months. This injury also led to an early end to her 2025 season.
Henman, during a press conference, shed light on Raducanu’s exit and the ongoing foot issue that has been plaguing her since last year. He mentioned that Raducanu has been making significant progress in her recovery and practice sessions in London, focusing on static drills to avoid aggravating the injury. However, her availability for the upcoming match is still uncertain as the team will discuss it before making a decision.
Speaking about Raducanu’s potential comeback, Henman expressed confidence in the team’s options, highlighting the impressive performance of Katie and the preparation of other players like Billy and Jan. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Raducanu’s participation, Henman emphasized the team’s readiness to adapt to any situation.
Raducanu’s 2025 season was marred by various injuries, including a severe spasm during the Strasbourg Open and a foot injury that forced her to end the season early after a defeat in the Ningbo Open. Despite these setbacks, Raducanu remains determined to bounce back and regain her form ahead of the French Open 2025.
In an interview, Raducanu discussed her recovery process from the spasm and back issues she faced last season, highlighting the importance of physiotherapy and specialized treatments to prevent further complications. Despite the challenges she encountered in 2025, Raducanu’s resilience and determination to overcome setbacks demonstrate her commitment to returning stronger in the upcoming tournaments.
As Raducanu prepares for her next match against Maria Sakkari, fans eagerly await her comeback and hope to see her back on the court showcasing her talent and determination. The British tennis sensation’s journey through injuries and setbacks serves as a testament to her strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.
