Emma Raducanu Withdraws from Madrid Open Amid Ongoing Health Concerns
British tennis star Emma Raducanu has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Madrid Open, continuing her absence from competitive play as she recovers from persistent post-viral symptoms. This decision marks her third consecutive tournament withdrawal, following her earlier exits from the Miami Open and the Upper Austria Ladies Linz event.
Raducanu's Recovery Timeline and Training Status
Raducanu last competed six weeks ago at Indian Wells, where she suffered a defeat to Amanda Anisimova. Since then, she has been battling health issues that originated from a viral illness contracted in February. Despite this setback, the world number 29 remains optimistic about her return to the court, targeting the Italian Open in early May as her potential comeback tournament for the clay season.
It is understood that Raducanu has resumed training sessions, but she and her team have determined that she is not yet prepared for the physical demands of competition in Madrid. Her absence will result in the forfeiture of 35 ranking points, as she reached the second round in Madrid last year before losing to Marta Kostyuk.
Tournament Chaos with High-Profile Withdrawals
The Madrid Open has been hit with significant disruptions, as Raducanu's withdrawal follows closely on the heels of two other major announcements. World number two Carlos Alcaraz pulled out due to a wrist injury sustained at the Barcelona Open, while three-time former champion Novak Djokovic withdrew citing persistent injury concerns, with both decisions made within hours of each other on Friday.
These consecutive withdrawals represent a substantial blow to tournament organizers, who now face a depleted field of top-tier talent. The absence of such prominent players could impact viewer interest and competitive dynamics throughout the event.
Raducanu's Challenging Season and Recent Performance
Raducanu's 2026 campaign has been marred by consistent health and fitness challenges. A foot problem disrupted her pre-season preparations, limiting her practice time before the United Cup. She suffered a second-round exit at the Australian Open and subsequently parted ways with her coach, Francisco Roig.
Despite these obstacles, there were positive moments earlier in the year. Raducanu advanced to her first final since her historic 2021 US Open victory, finishing as runner-up in Cluj in February. However, her progress was halted when she contracted the viral illness that has since defined her season.
Reflection on Tournament Participation Decisions
Following her illness, Raducanu participated in WTA 1000 tournaments in Doha and Dubai, where she withdrew mid-match in Doha and exited in the first round in Dubai. The British number one has since acknowledged that, in retrospect, she should have withdrawn from those events to prioritize her recovery.
Her team currently includes hitting partner Alexis Canter and physiotherapist Emma Stewart, who are supporting her through this recovery phase. Raducanu's focus remains on regaining full fitness and returning to competitive form, with hopes pinned on a strong performance at the Italian Open, where she reached the fourth round in 2025 before losing to Coco Gauff.
