Raducanu Withdraws from Tournament Amid Illness

Emma Raducanu, the British tennis star, has stepped away from the Linz Open in Austria following a viral illness, as confirmed by her team. The 23-year-old world number 28 had planned to compete in the WTA 500 event but opted to delay her clay-court season to prioritize full recovery. Her representatives revealed she will return to competitive play later in the European clay-court season, targeting the Madrid Open.

Raducanu’s representatives stated she is focusing on rehabilitation before resuming her schedule.

Raducanu’s health has been a recurring concern since her breakthrough Grand Slam win in New York in 2021. Last season marked a positive shift, as she achieved a milestone by playing 50 matches, but this year has started with setbacks. Injuries and physical challenges have disrupted her progress, including a coaching change and a period of rest after feeling unwell during the February hard-court events in the Middle East.

Despite these hurdles, Raducanu has secured seven victories in six tournaments this season, with four wins in a run to the Transylvania Open final. The tournament in Romania was a key opportunity for her to claim her first title since the 2021 US Open. However, she chose to skip Miami after competing in Indian Wells, leading to uncertainty in her calendar.

Her withdrawal coincides with another British player, Jack Draper, pulling out of the Monte Carlo Masters. Draper is also navigating a cautious comeback after an arm injury. The French Open, the final event of the clay-court season, is set to begin in late May. For updates on scores, results, and match schedules, follow live tennis coverage.