The 2022 season is set to begin with the Mubadala World Tennis Championships between December 16-18 2021 which includes Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray but will not include Emma Raducanu.
The US Open champion was due to play an exhibition against the Olympic champion, Belinda Bencic later this week in a highly anticipated clash.
But she has tested positive for Covid-19 so will not play in Abu Dhabi.
Organisers have said that a new opponent is being sought for Bencic with an announcement potentially in due course.
“Emma is now isolating and following all necessary protocols. We wish her a quick recovery and hope to see her back on the court soon," they said.
“We are looking at alternative top female competitors to go head-to-head with Belinda Bencic; further updates will be provided in due course.”
“I was very much looking forward to playing in front of the fans here in Abu Dhabi, but unfortunately after testing positive for COVID-19, I will have to postpone until the next opportunity. I’m isolating as per rules and hopefully will be able to get back soon," said Raducanu in a statement released by the organisers.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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