Three years after her historic triumph at the 2021 US Open, Emma Raducanu is set to make her comeback at next year’s Australian Open by utilizing her Special Ranking. The British tennis sensation, who made headlines as the first qualifier to secure the Flushing Meadows title, captured hearts worldwide with her remarkable feat of winning 10 consecutive matches in straight sets during her unforgettable US Open run.
Raducanu’s victory not only etched her name in the annals of tennis history but also propelled her to a top-20 finish by the conclusion of the 2021 season. Since then, the 21-year-old has predominantly secured direct entry into the main draws of major tournaments owing to her improved ranking.
However, her journey in subsequent Grand Slam events faced hurdles. In 2022, she exited the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon in the second round, followed by an early departure in the US Open’s opening round. The 2023 Australian Open witnessed another second-round exit for the promising Brit.
Unfortunately, Raducanu encountered setbacks on her path as injuries forced her to miss the subsequent three Majors. Earlier this year, she underwent surgery on her ankle and wrists, necessitating a pause in her competitive appearances. As the 2024 season looms, it has been disclosed that she will utilize her Special Ranking of World No. 103 to make her comeback at the Australian Open.
So the full SR entries for AO24 are:
Jenn Brady🇺🇸SR14
Angelique Kerber🇩🇪SR31
Ajla Tomjanovic🇦🇺SR33
Naomi Osaka🇯🇵SR46
Shelby Rogers 🇺🇸SR51
Amanda Anisimova🇺🇸SR61
Caty McNally🇺🇸SR71
Aleksandra Krunic🇷🇸SR99
Emma Raducanu🇬🇧SR103
Hsieh Su-wei🇹🇼SR106
Ysaline Bonaventure🇧🇪SR109— Melanie Lautrup (@melanie_lautrup) December 4, 2023
Despite her ranking standing, it won’t secure her a place in the main draw, compelling the former US Open champion to compete in the qualification rounds. Joining her in utilizing their Special Ranking at the 2024 Australian Open are other notable WTA players such as Naomi Osaka, Shelby Rogers, Ajla Tomljanovic, Jennifer Brady, and Angelique Kerber.
Raducanu’s return to the qualification rounds signifies her determination to resume her competitive journey, showcasing resilience following her recovery from injuries. As the tennis world eagerly awaits her comeback, fans remain hopeful for yet another inspiring performance from the young and talented British star.
Emma Raducanu in 2023
Now ranked no.296, Emma played her last match on the 18th of April when she capitulated to world no.13 Jelena Ostapenko 6-2 6-1 in the 1st round in Stuttgart (draw).
At the moment, during this season Emma has managed to achieve a 5-5 win-loss record.
Emma Raducanu |
Embed from Getty Images |