British tennis star Emma Raducanu was forced to pull out of her highly anticipated United Cup clash with Naomi Osaka at the eleventh hour, with team captain Tim Henman citing an ongoing foot issue.
Sudden Withdrawal Ahead of Osaka Clash
Raducanu was scheduled to represent Team GB against Japan's Naomi Osaka on Sunday, but withdrew just hours before the match was due to commence. She was replaced by teammate Katie Swan, who stepped in to face the four-time Grand Slam champion.
Swan ultimately suffered a straight-sets defeat. However, the British team secured a 2-1 victory in the overall tie. This win was clinched thanks to Billy Harris's success in the men's singles and a crucial mixed doubles win from the pairing of Olivia Nicholls and Neal Skupski.
Henman Details Raducanu's Fitness Battle
Speaking after the match, Tim Henman shed light on the reason behind Raducanu's late withdrawal. He confirmed the British number one has been managing a persistent problem with her right foot.
"Yeah, she struggled with her foot for the end of last year," Henman stated. "The improvement that she's made has been fantastic. She's been practising in London, really only doing static drills, to be out on the practice court and moving and playing games. She is very close."
The injury, described as light bone bruising, had already caused Raducanu to miss two exhibition matches during the off-season. Her participation for the remainder of the United Cup now hangs in the balance.
Quarter-Final Hopes and Sakkari Record
The immediate focus shifts to Team GB's decisive Group E match against Greece on Monday. A victory would secure a place in the quarter-finals, following Japan's elimination.
Henman expressed hope that Raducanu would be fit to play, which would provide a significant boost. Raducanu holds a perfect 4-0 career record against Greece's top player, Maria Sakkari. However, the captain confirmed the decision remains uncertain.
"In terms of tomorrow, it's still a little bit up in the air," Henman explained. "We're kind of forced to put Emma on the list because if we didn't do that, then that only gives us one option. We'll discuss it as a team... I'm very happy whoever plays."
He also praised Katie Swan's performance under pressure, highlighting her journey back to top-level competition over the past 18 months.
