Anne Diamond faces backlash for 'unforgivable' Raducanu's withdrawal and controversial parallel with Rishi Sunak
WTA
TV presenter Anne Diamond called Emma Raducanu's decision to
withdraw from mixed doubles 'unforgivable,' and compared it to Rishi Sunak's early retirement at the D-Day commemorations, attracting a wave of criticism on
social media. The 2021 US Open champion was scheduled to play alongside Murray
in the mixed doubles draw after receiving a wild card but withdrew hours before
the match due to wrist discomfort.
According to the 21-year-old star, the withdrawal was due to
physical problems requiring rest before her fourth-round singles match against
Lulu Sun. Raducanu's campaign has been notable so far, guaranteeing her return
to the top 100 and advancing to the second week of a Grand Slam for the first
time since her title at Flushing Meadows.
Anne Diamond under fire for criticizing Raducanu
TV presenter Anne Diamond rose to fame in the UK as the host
of the talk show Good Morning Britain in the 80s and is currently a presenter
on GB News. Diamond strongly criticized Raducanu for her withdrawal, which
prevented Murray's last appearance on the SW19 courts.
Read also
"Just speaking as a fan, I was really looking forward
to it," Diamond said. "I also see it as a giant snub from a young
girl, who has got a future ahead of her, yes – but he is the king of
Wimbledon."
The presenter compared Raducanu's decision to the recent
news of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who decided to return early from the
80th-anniversary commemorations of D-Day to campaign in the elections:
"I’m not rooting for her anymore. I’m so sorry, I was yesterday – I was so
keen and absolutely behind her, and now this. To me, this is like Rishi Sunak
going back from the D-Day beaches early. I think it’s unforgivable."
Read also
Fans on social media criticized the TV presenter's
comparison. In fact, it became one of the trending topics in the United
Kingdom. Here you can find some of the reactions on X:
“What an absolute twat Anne Diamond is. It’s Wimbledon, not
the Andy Murray farewell tour.”
"She is an elite sportswoman who rightly takes every decision that helps her further her performance. Of course she’s doing the right thing. You don’t get to the top without being ruthless in every decision you make. She can’t just for the sake of Andy give it all up and harm her chances and neither would he have done in her place. Ridiculous criticism."
“Anne Diamond was very disappointed with Raducanu, said who
does she think she is? When asked if she would make amends if she wins
Wimbledon? Anne says no and she's not going to root for her again as it was an
unbelievable snub."
"The irony is
that Andy Murray spent a lot of his career correcting people about women in
tennis and generally being incredibly supportive. He doesn’t have an issue with
Emma Raducanu focussing on the singles, so why does anyone else? Anne Diamond
honestly what are you on?!"
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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