Raducanu Pulls Out Of Australian Open Warm-up With Back Injury

Emma Raducanus preparations for the Australian Open have suffered a blow after the British tennis star withdrew from the Auckland Classic on Tuesday due to a back niggle. Raducanu, seeded sixth in the tournament, has opted to travel to Melbourne to begin rehabilitation ahead of the seasons first Grand Slam, which starts on January 12.

Ive tried my best to be ready. I love Auckland and the fans here. But unfortunately, Ive picked up a back niggle and I wont be ready in time, said the 22-year-old.

This is the latest in a series of injury setbacks for the former US Open champion, who has been working with renowned fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura to improve her physical resilience.

Raducanu, ranked 56th in the world, missed most of the 2023 season due to wrist and ankle surgeries and recently returned from a two-month layoff caused by a foot injury.

Her withdrawal from Auckland leaves her short on match practice as she gears up for the Australian Open.