Emma Raducanu to be welcomed with 'open arms' on return to Billie Jean King Cup fold says Katie Boulter

Emma Raducanu will be welcomed back with open arms to the Billie Jean King Cup fold says Katie Boulter despite the Brit previously snubbing the tournament meaning she hasn't played since 2022. The former US Open champion will be part of the team that faces France this weekend.

At 302, Raducanu is the lowest-ranked member of the Great Britain team. But given her prowess, it would be a shock to see her not play against France with of course some players being there who will be left on the bench. Boulter has since taken over as the top British star since Raducanu's injury worries and sits at 28th in the world compared to the lowly ranking of Raducanu. The recent San Diego champion though is just pleased she is healthy and ready to go.

“I’m very pleased. We’ve missed her. We love having her back," said Boulter to PA. "Obviously the number one thing is that she’s healthy. I’ve always said it for myself and it’s my biggest wish for her as well is that she can stay as healthy as possible. We’re going to be welcoming her with open arms for sure.”

On the match-up, it is one that they know well from last year's Billie Jean King Cup. “It’s a brutal match-up. We’ve already been in this place before and we had it at home. I think if anything it could help us, we are completely the underdogs. I think we’ve got a free swing.