Emma Raducanu has decided to pull out of two upcoming exhibition matches in the United States, choosing to prioritize her recovery and full fitness ahead of the 2026 season. She had been scheduled to face Amanda Anisimova in Newark and Miami early next month, but promoters confirmed that Jessica Pegula will now take her place.
Injury concerns and recovery plan
It is understood that Raducanu is dealing with light bone bruising on her right foot. While the injury forced her to end her 2025 season prematurely, it is not expected to disrupt her plans for an imminent pre-season training camp in Barcelona. The British star retired from a match against Ann Li in Wuhan and struggled at the Ningbo Open, where she lost in the opening round, citing physical issues.
Building a new support team
Looking ahead, Raducanu has enlisted the expertise of Francisco Roig, Rafael Nadal’s long-term former coach, to guide her pre-season preparations. She has also added a new physio, Emma Stewart, who previously worked with British Rowing, to strengthen her support team and ensure she is physically ready for the challenges of the new season.
Highlights of the 2025 season
Despite her struggles late in the year, Raducanu competed at all four majors in 2025. She reached the third round of the Australian Open for the first time before being knocked out by eventual semi-finalist Iga Swiatek. At the French Open, she again faced Swiatek, losing in the second round. Wimbledon brought a promising run, with Raducanu defeating fellow Brit Mimi Xu and former champion Marketa Vondrousova before falling in a close third-round match to world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. At the US Open, she advanced to the third round before being beaten by former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.
Looking ahead to 2026
Raducanu’s decision to withdraw from the exhibitions reflects her focus on long-term fitness and performance. By taking time away from competition now, she aims to make a strong start to the 2026 season, with her new coaching and physio team supporting her return to peak form.
Emma Raducanu in 2025
Currently the world no.29, Raducanu played her last match on the 14th of October when she lost to world no.163 Lin Zhu 3-6 6-4 6-1 in the 1st round in Ningbo (draw).
Presently, during this year the Brit has managed to achieve an overall 28-22 record. Emma Raducanu’s most significant performance of the current season was reaching the semifinal in Washington.