"Perhaps she needs to look at what Jack has been doing": Tim Henman believes Emma Raducanu may need to follow Jack Draper path in halting return
WTA
Tim Henman
shared his thoughts on Emma Raducanu's comeback in 2024 and advised his
compatriot not to rush her return until she is in the best physical condition and drew a comparison with Jack Draper.
The young
British talent rose to the forefront of the tennis world with her remarkable
performance at the 2021 US Open. Emerging from the qualifiers, she won ten
consecutive matches without dropping a set, clinching her first Grand Slam
title at just 18 years old.
Despite
Raducanu's impressive level of play, injuries have hindered her ability to
maintain consistency since then. Earlier this year, she opted for surgeries on
both wrists, preventing her from playing since the Stuttgart Open in April,
where she fell to Jelena Ostapenko 6-2, 6-1.
Former
world No. 4 and sports commentator Tim Henman recently predicted Raducanu's
return in 2024. However, he cautioned the young star to approach her comeback
with patience, considering the rigorous physical demands of the WTA Tour, where
players compete week in and week out.
"It is
above all about the physical side and building the resilience to stand up to
the demands of the tour week in, week out. She has always been different with
coaches and some people like to do things differently in an individual sport,”
Hemnman said about former the 2021 US Open champion
“I have
absolutely no doubts about her tennis ability, but it’s the physical side and
building that base around you," he added.
The 4-time
Wimbledon semifinalist drew a comparison to another young British star, Jack
Draper. The 21-year-old, who has also faced challenges with injuries, made a
strategic decision upon his return in 2023. Draper chose to limit his
participation in higher-level tournaments, opting for challenger events
instead. This measured approach allows him to gradually regain rhythm and avoid
overexerting his physical condition.
"It is
the fundamental requirement in the modern game and she needs to be using this
time to create that. Jack Draper has realized the importance of this and you
are seeing him reap the benefits," Henman stated.
"Perhaps
she needs to look at what Jack has been doing. Everyone wants her to succeed
and you just hope she will make the right choices to achieve what she is
capable of. Emma should take her time," he concluded.
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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