Emma Raducanu faced another challenging outing on the court, as she was eliminated from the Ningbo Open in the first round, showcasing ongoing struggles with her physical fitness. The British star had returned to action just a week after having to retire from her match at the Wuhan Open due to dizziness in oppressively hot conditions.
In her opening set against Zhu Lin from China, Raducanu initially seemed to regain some momentum, securing the first set. However, as the match progressed, it became apparent that her physical condition was deteriorating. She ultimately succumbed to a 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 loss, a stark contrast to her promising start.
Raducanu, who has battled injury issues throughout the season, appeared to be managing better conditions, with temperatures cooler than she faced in Wuhan. Nevertheless, her performance waned early in the second set, prompting her to call for medical assistance after seven games. Despite her attempts to remain competitive, the physical toll was evident, particularly in the deciding set where she struggled significantly and sought medical help once again for a troubling lower back issue.
Without her usual coach, Francisco Roig, who was taking a short break in Barcelona, Raducanu was accompanied by hitting partner Alexis Canter and fitness trainer Daniel Pohl. Canter provided morale support as Raducanu faced challenges throughout the match.
Initially, Raducanu’s first set performance was marked by frustration despite holding a lead. In the second set, her health seemed to decline sharply, and though she fought back to level the score at 4-4, she was unable to capitalize, ultimately falling to defeat after a series of physical difficulties.
As she staggered through the final set, the decision to continue despite her pain highlighted her resilience, though the match culminated in a swift end as she struggled to maintain movement.
The situation raises questions about Raducanu’s fitness heading into the final tournaments of the season, with fans hoping for a recovery and return to form in the coming matches.
