Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, is gearing up for a return to the WTA Tour after facing a challenging second-round exit at the Australian Open. Despite uncertainties about wildcards, the British sensation remains optimistic about testing herself against the world’s best players in the Middle East.

In a recent interview, Raducanu expressed her desire to compete before Indian Wells, stating, “I would love to compete before [Indian Wells]. I’m waiting to hear on the wildcard situation because, I don’t know, that’s not my decision.” The 21-year-old acknowledges the role of rankings and wildcards in determining her tournament entries but remains hopeful about participating in events in the Middle East.

Raducanu’s journey at the Australian Open concluded with a hard-fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 loss against Wang Yafan in the second round. This performance is a significant step for Raducanu, considering her eight-month absence from the tour due to surgery on her hands and ankle, which led to a drop in her rankings.

Despite the challenges, Raducanu has already secured a wildcard entry into the Abu Dhabi WTA 500 event, scheduled to begin on February 5, a week after the conclusion of the Australian Open. However, her participation in subsequent WTA 1000 events in Doha and Dubai depends on wildcard availability and her protected ranking, which currently stands at No. 103.

Raducanu’s coaching dynamics have also evolved since her return. She is now working with coach Nick Cavaday, with whom she shares a long history. Speaking about their partnership, she emphasized the comfort and familiarity of working with someone she has known since her youth.

Despite ongoing uncertainties about her schedule and potential wildcards, Raducanu remains committed to keeping her team small. Regarding the prospect of a permanent fitness trainer, she stated, “I do like keeping my team small. Just keeping everything as close-knit and with good people I trust.”

As Raducanu prepares for her comeback, including the upcoming events in the Middle East, her focus remains on staying healthy and evaluating tournament choices that align with her fitness and rehab priorities. The tennis world eagerly awaits Raducanu’s return, anticipating more remarkable performances from the young British talent on the WTA Tour.

Emma Raducanu in 2024

Currently ranked no.296, Emma played her last match on the 18^th of January when she capitulated to world no.94 Yafan Wang 6-4 4-6 6-4 in the 2^nd round of the Australian Open (draw).

Presently, during this year Emma has a 2-2 win-loss record.