Emma Raducanu is set to make her return to competitive tennis at the Internationaux de Strasbourg next week, ending a two-month absence caused by illness. The British No. 1 has been recovering from a post-viral illness since February, which forced her to withdraw from four consecutive tournaments, including the Italian Open.
Wild Card Entry for Clay Court Preparation
The 23-year-old has accepted a wild card entry into the Strasbourg event, which will provide valuable match practice on clay courts ahead of the French Open, commencing on 24 May. Raducanu also competed in Strasbourg last year, giving her familiarity with the tournament.
Recovery Progress and Current Status
Raducanu acknowledged that she is not yet fully recovered, stating she is not "100 per cent" but feels she has "turned a corner" and is feeling significantly better on court. Her extended absence from the tour has led to a drop in her world ranking, meaning she will not be seeded for Roland Garros. Additionally, she is currently without a coach.
The former US Open champion last played at Indian Wells in March before her illness took hold. The Strasbourg tournament will be a crucial test of her fitness and form as she prepares for the second Grand Slam of the year.
