The 2026 tennis season has begun with a significant setback for British number one Emma Raducanu, who was forced to withdraw from her opening match at the United Cup in Perth just an hour before she was due to face former world number one Naomi Osaka.
Last-Minute Withdrawal Scuppers Anticipated Comeback
Raducanu pulled out of the high-profile tie at the RAC Arena while managing a foot issue that has lingered since the end of the previous season. Her place in the Great Britain team was taken by Katie Swan, who faced Osaka in her stead. Despite the disappointment, Raducanu struck a hopeful note, stating the extra day of recovery could prove beneficial and praising Swan's form.
The 23-year-old, who enjoyed a relatively healthy 2025, had been training in Perth throughout the preceding week. She remained courtside all day, supporting her teammates vocally from the bench alongside her coach, Francisco Roig. Team captain Tim Henman revealed the decision was a difficult one, telling Channel Nine, "She was very, very close. She had been building up and practicing really well." He added that she was not necessarily out of the tournament entirely.
Familiar Frailty for British Contingent
The incident underscores the persistent physical challenges that have marked the careers of Britain's top talents. Raducanu's withdrawal followed that of British men's number one Jack Draper, who was ruled out of the United Cup as he continues to recover from bone bruising in his left arm, an injury expected to sideline him for at least six months.
His replacement, world number 128 Billy Harris, seized his opportunity impressively. Having only learned of his call-up on Christmas Eve, Harris secured a solid victory over Japan's Shintaro Mochizuki, winning 7-6 (4), 6-3. This marked Harris's first win in the competition, having lost all three matches when he replaced an injured Draper last year.
Injury Bug Hits Early Season Tournament
Raducanu and Draper were not alone in battling physical problems during the tournament's first week. Osaka revealed her preparations had been hampered by illness, which was evident during her opening loss to Greece's Maria Sakkari. American star Taylor Fritz also struggled with a knee issue in a defeat.
Despite the setbacks for the British team, the event saw other notable performances. Coco Gauff rallied to clinch a victory for the USA, while the 40-year-old Stan Wawrinka began his farewell season with a marathon three-set win. The situation leaves Great Britain's hopes in the mixed-team event hanging in the balance, heavily dependent on Raducanu's swift recovery to bolster their campaign.
