LONDON — Emma Raducanu has announced her withdrawal from the forthcoming Berlin Open due to a persistent back issue, as she aims to prioritize her recovery in preparation for Wimbledon. This setback comes as Raducanu, ranked 37th in the world, continues to face complications from a back problem that surfaced prior to the French Open in May. During her recent quarterfinal match at Queen’s Club against Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen, Raducanu needed to take an off-court medical timeout to address her discomfort.
Following the match, the 22-year-old 2021 U.S. Open champion emphasized the importance of rest, stating, “I’m not overly concerned that it’s something serious, but I know it’s something that’s very annoying and needs proper and careful management.” Raducanu’s focus now lies in ensuring her physical readiness for Wimbledon, which is set to commence on June 30. Her absence from the Berlin Open, a crucial grass-court event that aids players in gearing up for Wimbledon, is a testament to the importance she places on careful recuperation.
Despite Raducanu’s withdrawal, the Berlin Open remains a high-profile tournament with nine of the top 10 women’s players slated to participate. The event is a critical component of the season, serving as a key preparatory step for many athletes as they refine their skills on grass in anticipation of Wimbledon. Raducanu’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, but her decision underscores a growing awareness among athletes regarding the importance of health and long-term career sustainability. As the tennis world looks ahead to the subsequent major events, Raducanu’s strategic rest period highlights the delicate balance elite athletes must maintain between competition and well-being.