That’s good news for Emma Raducanu and her fans. Back injuries can be quite concerning for athletes, but it’s reassuring to hear that it’s nothing serious in her case. Taking the necessary time to recover and ensuring she’s fully fit before returning to competition will be crucial for her long-term health and performance.
The 21-year-old, who received a wildcard entry for the esteemed WTA tournament, was scheduled to compete against China’s Wang Xiyu in the opening round on Tuesday. Nonetheless, discomfort in her lower back prompted Raducanu to withdraw, with the athlete from Kent opting not to take any chances.
It’s another setback for Raducanu, currently ranked 288th, as she strives to solidify her presence on the WTA Tour. The former US Open champion faced a hiatus from May until the conclusion of last season due to surgeries on both wrists and one ankle, adding to a string of injury woes since her triumph at Flushing Meadows in 2021.
Her comeback at the onset of this year displayed promising signs as she reached the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells last week, albeit losing to Aryna Sabalenka.
Raducanu’s withdrawal in Miami raises questions about her availability for Great Britain’s Billie Jean King Cup clash with France on April 12-13. However, the positive update suggests her absence from action will be brief. The young athlete is anticipated to return to the UK for rehabilitation, and she will need to decide on her participation in the Billie Jean King Cup tie in France in the upcoming weeks.
The quartet comprises British top-ranked player Katie Boulter, along with Harriet Dart and Heather Watson.
