Around this time last year, 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu was recovering from three surgeries—one on each of her wrists and another on her ankle. Although there was speculation that she might compete by the end of 2023, Raducanu opted to return at the start of the year in Auckland.
Taking advantage of her protected ranking, which helps players coming back from injury, and benefiting from wildcards, Raducanu aimed to finish the year in the top 50—a significant goal after her ranking had dropped below 200 during her recovery. Currently ranked No. 54 in the WTA live rankings and with no points to defend in the final weeks of the year, she has a strong chance of breaking into the top 50 if she can return to the court.
A foot injury forced her to withdraw from several events during the WTA Tour’s Asian swing, raising some questions about her short-term future. However, the long-term outlook remains promising for the 21-year-old. Despite her injury challenges, Raducanu has performed well when she’s been able to compete, though she’s only participated in three tournaments since reaching the fourth round of Wimbledon in July.
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Raducanu’s form peaked during the English summer, particularly on grass courts in Nottingham, Eastbourne, and Wimbledon. She also helped lead Britain to victory against France in the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers in April. While her comeback year has seen some disappointing moments, she appears ready to handle the ups and downs of a professional tennis career.
Reflecting on her journey, Raducanu told Women’s Health Magazine that she has learned not to dwell on setbacks, stating, “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is non-attachment; acknowledging that everything comes and goes.” She added that her injuries have taught her to accept and reframe challenges, focusing on what she can still do, such as yoga and Pilates, rather than what she cannot.
Raducanu is now preparing to return to competition at the WTA 250 event in Hong Kong later this month, hoping her body will hold up as she chases her first title since her memorable US Open win. While she still has room for improvement in 2025, finishing this year just outside the top 50 would already be an achievement compared to where she started in January.