British tennis star Emma Raducanu has been forced to withdraw from two high-profile exhibition events in the United States after sustaining a minor injury, scuppering a much-anticipated on-court reunion with Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz.
Injury Forces Schedule Change
The world number 29 was scheduled to face Wimbledon finalist Amanda Anisimova in singles matches at both 'A Racquet at The Rock' in Newark on 7 December and the Miami Invitational the following day. Both events also featured Carlos Alcaraz, with whom Raducanu was set to play mixed doubles in Miami, recreating their partnership from the US Open.
However, tournament organisers confirmed in a statement that Jessica Pegula will replace Raducanu, who "dropped her participation due to injury." It is understood the 23-year-old Brit is managing light bone bruising in her right foot.
New Appointment for Pre-Season
As she focuses on recovery and preparation for the new season, Raducanu has brought a new expert onto her team. Reports indicate she has begun working with Emma Stewart, an esteemed physiotherapist whose previous experience includes working with the men's squad at British Rowing, a team renowned for its Olympic success.
Raducanu has not played a competitive match since her first-round defeat in Ningbo over a month ago, a match where she required her vitals to be taken and ultimately lost in three sets. She subsequently ended her 2025 season early, withdrawing from her final two tournaments due to health reasons, having also retired ill during the first round of the Wuhan Open.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The former US Open champion has already confirmed her commitment to start the 2026 season at the United Cup, the mixed-gender team tournament held in Perth and Sydney. There, she will represent Team GB alongside Jack Draper, Billy Harris, Lloyd Glasspool, Mimi Xu, and Olivia Nicholls.
Team GB has been drawn in Group E alongside Greece, led by Maria Sakkari and Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Japan, featuring Naomi Osaka and Shintaro Mochizuki. Raducanu is currently enjoying her off-season, having recently celebrated her 23rd birthday and been spotted watching England's rugby victory over the All Blacks at Twickenham. She has also agreed to extend her partnership with Spanish coach Francis Roig.
