Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu has decided to prioritize her long-term fitness by withdrawing from the Roland Garros qualifying draw. Despite showing considerable progress at the Mutua Madrid Open, the British tennis sensation chose to forgo the opportunity to compete in the French Grand Slam tournament in order to focus on the forthcoming grass and hard-court swings.
Raducanu’s noteworthy performance at the clay court season brought attention to her talent and potential, particularly as she played a pivotal role in Great Britain’s win against France. Her victories were marked by exceptional levels of play, underscoring the strides she has made since her historic win at the US Open two and a half years ago. The significance of these wins and her commitment to training were evident in her statement following her victory over Caroline Garcia, where she emphasized the importance of practice and maintaining a consistent training regimen.
However, Raducanu’s decision to withdraw from the Roland Garros qualifying draw reflects her determination to manage her physical condition strategically. With a special ranking of No. 103, which fell short of direct acceptance into the main draw, she made a conscious choice to utilize the time to focus on her fitness and lay the foundations for the upcoming grass and hard-court seasons. By prioritizing her long-term well-being and aiming to maintain her fitness for the rest of the year, Raducanu conveyed a resolute commitment to her career and overall health.
Her withdrawal from Roland Garros signifies a deliberate attempt to sustain her fitness for the competitive challenges that lie ahead. As Raducanu prepares to shift her focus to the grass and hard-court swings, her decision exemplifies the importance of prioritizing physical well-being in a demanding and relentless sport like tennis.