Raducanu Withdraws from Italian Open
British No 1 Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Italian Open at short notice, citing ongoing struggles with a post-viral illness. This decision came less than 30 minutes after she had spoken positively about her participation in Rome during her pre-tournament media interviews.
Raducanu had been present at the Foro Italico for several days, engaging in practice sets with fellow competitors. As a seeded player, she received a bye and was scheduled to play her second-round match against Solana Sierra or a qualifier.
Pre-Tournament Media Interview
On Tuesday evening, Raducanu fulfilled her mandatory pre-tournament media obligations, discussing her recent progress following a challenging period.
"Last two months, in the beginning, it was quite difficult," she said. "Wasn’t feeling the best physically. And I think it had just been lingering for a while. Whereas the last three weeks, I think I’ve really turned a corner and I feel so much better.
"And that’s a really positive thing for me. I feel great on the court. I feel like every day I’m working towards something. The break has helped me feel really motivated coming back, very hungry and happy to be out here training and putting out great sessions every day."
Withdrawal Announcement and Regulations
Less than half an hour after her interview, at 7pm local time, the tournament supervisor confirmed Raducanu's withdrawal from the event. According to WTA and ATP tour regulations, players who withdraw on-site must complete at least one post-withdrawal activity, such as a media availability session, to avoid a fine. Had Raducanu not spoken to the media, she would have faced a $15,000 fine for non-compliance with these rules.
While it is not uncommon for players to withdraw from tournaments a day or two after their media duties, Raducanu's case was unusual as she completed her media obligations before officially withdrawing, whereas most players withdraw first and then explain their reasons during press conferences.
Extended Absence from Tennis
Raducanu’s withdrawal extends her absence from professional tennis to over two months. The British No 1 began experiencing viral symptoms during the Middle East swing in February, which persisted into early March.
Following a disappointing performance at Indian Wells in March, where she lost 6-1, 6-1 to Amanda Anisimova in the third round, Raducanu chose to take an extended break from competition.
Challenges This Year and Recent Efforts
This season has been challenging for Raducanu, who initially dealt with a foot injury before her illness. Recently, she appeared to be making progress, briefly reuniting with her former coach Andrew Richardson to regain match fitness at the Ferrer academy in Benidorm.
When asked about the mental toll of these challenges, Raducanu responded with optimism.
"Potentially [draining mentally]," she said. "When you have things going on, every day you’re working at it, it’s something you have in your head, but now in terms of body, injuries-wise, I feel very good. I don’t have anything that’s bothering me, and I’m just able to put out good days and I feel like I’m approaching each day, shot with great purpose. I have a lot of energy and motivation inside of me."
