Emma Raducanu began her first-round match at the Ningbo Open with promise, winning the opening set 6-3 against Chinese wildcard Zhu Lin. However, midway through the second set, she requested a medical timeout after experiencing discomfort. Her blood pressure was checked courtside, and she returned to level the score before losing the set 6-4.
Back pain disrupts third set
In the final set, Raducanu’s physical struggles intensified. She called for another medical timeout as her lower back became a clear issue. The physio treated her on the court while she lay flat, and although she resumed play, her movement was visibly limited. She lost the next four games, falling 6-1 and exiting the tournament.
Zhu Lin acknowledges late-season fatigue
After the match, Zhu Lin commented on the physical toll players face at this stage of the calendar. “It’s not easy for any of us at this point in the calendar,” she said during her on-court interview.
Coaching absence and support team
Raducanu was without her coach Francisco Roig, who remained in Barcelona. Her hitting partner Alexis Canter and physical trainer Daniel Pohl were present to support her during the match.
Concerns ahead of the off-season
This latest episode adds to a series of physical issues Raducanu has faced since her breakout in 2021. With the season nearing its end, her team will likely reassess her recovery plan to ensure she returns fully fit for the next campaign.
WTA Ningbo - Emma Raducanu's projected path
Emma Raducanu in 2025
Ranked no.29, Emma played her last match on the 7th of October when she had to retire when playing against world no.42 Ann Li in the 1st round and the scoreline was 6-1 4-1 .
During this season the Brit has a 28-21 record. Emma Raducanu’s best accomplishment of this year was reaching the semifinal in Washington.