"We need Raducanu to be healthy, number one": Billie Jean King urges Emma Raducanu to wait for return if less than 100%
WTAFriday, 20 October 2023 at 16:13
Billie Jean
King shared her thoughts on Emma Raducanu's uncertain return and advised her
not to rush her comeback.
The 2021 US
Open champion achieved an incredible feat at Flushing Meadows, winning the
tournament from the qualifiers without dropping a set at just 18 years of age.
However, Raducanu struggled to maintain her top form and gradually slipped in
the rankings, all while dealing with injuries that hindered her regular
participation on the WTA Tour.
The
20-year-old athlete opted to undergo wrist surgery and took a hiatus for nearly
the entire year, with her last match being in the first round of the Stuttgart
Open in April, where she was defeated by Jelena Ostapenko with a score of 6-2,
6-1.
The
American tennis legend Billie Jean King responded to an interview on Sky Sports
and discussed Raducanu's challenges and the injuries she has faced over the
last two years:
“We need
Raducanu to be healthy, number one,” King said to Sky Sports.
“She's a
great person. She's interested in the world around her, she can speak more than
one language - she can speak Chinese because her mother's Chinese. She's
somebody who I think is interesting as a human being.”
“I'm
interested in her next chapter and I want her to be really healthy so she can
play tennis, because I know she loves to play. We'll see how that goes,” former
world No. 1 added.
“You've got
to be healthy. If you're not, you shouldn't play, so I think they've done the
right thing this year.”
While the
British tennis player has not officially confirmed her return, it is likely
that she will make a comeback in December, as she has an exhibition match
scheduled at the MGM Macau Tennis Masters. She is set to face off against the
Olympic champion Belinda Bencic.
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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