Emma Raducanu is facing a race to be fit for Wimbledon after missing a scheduled practice session on Thursday, raising concerns about a potential leg injury. The 23-year-old British number one was spotted wearing a protective boot on Wednesday evening, according to a journalist from Clay magazine.
Missed practice and protective boot
Raducanu practised at the All England Club on Monday but did not appear for a midday session on Thursday. Her representatives confirmed she is managing a niggle, though details of the injury remain undisclosed. The sighting of a protective boot has intensified speculation about her readiness for the Grand Slam tournament.
Stop-start season continues
This setback adds to a challenging season for the former US Open champion. She missed two and a half months earlier this year due to a post-viral illness that began in February. Raducanu played only two matches on clay courts before showing signs of resurgence at the HSBC Championships at Queen's Club, where she reached just her second final since her historic US Open triumph five years ago.
Physical toll of Queen's run
At Queen's, Raducanu played two matches in a day because of rain, which may have taken a physical toll. She has not played a match since that final a week and a half ago, opting to skip tournaments in Nottingham and Eastbourne. The demanding schedule could now impact her chances at Wimbledon.
Reunion with coach Andrew Richardson
Raducanu had reunited with coach Andrew Richardson, who guided her during her 2021 US Open victory. The partnership appeared to be bearing fruit at Queen's, but the latest injury concern threatens to disrupt her preparations for the grass-court major.
