Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from Wimbledon after a stress fracture in her right leg forced her out on the eve of the tournament. The 2021 U.S. Open champion confirmed the news via Instagram on Sunday evening, leaving the grass-court major without its highest-profile British player. She had been managing what she described as a 'niggle' that worsened into the fracture.
Raducanu, 22, wrote that she had 'done everything possible' to be ready for her first-round match but was advised by doctors to stop pushing through the injury. The timing is especially cruel for the British No. 1, who has struggled with injuries since her breakout title in New York. She did not disclose a recovery timeline.
The loss of Raducanu deals a blow to Wimbledon's home contingent and local fan interest. Britain now leans on players such as Katie Boulter and Jack Draper to carry the flag through the tournament's early rounds in singles competition.
Raducanu's next potential event could be the hard-court summer swing leading up to the U.S. Open, but her participation will depend on the fracture healing. The tennis community will await updates on her rehabilitation and return to competition.
'It's heartbreaking for Emma and for the tournament,' said former British No. 1 Tim Henman, who noted the strain of persistent injuries on her young career. Critics, however, point to Raducanu's history of frequent injury setbacks and question whether her training regimen has contributed to the pattern of breakdowns.