Synopsis
Emma Raducanu, the British tennis sensation, has received a wildcard for the Abu Dhabi Open qualifiers, marking her first qualifying draw entry since her remarkable 2021 US Open win. As she prepares for the competition, Raducanu aims to regain her form amidst challenges, including the absence of a full-time coach.Key Takeaways
- Emma Raducanu received a wildcard for Abu Dhabi Open qualifiers.
- She is entering a qualifying draw for the first time since her 2021 US Open victory.
- Currently ranked world number 56, she aims to regain her momentum.
- Raducanu is without a full-time coach as she prepares for the tournament.
- The field includes top players like Elena Rybakina and Jabeur.
Abu Dhabi, Jan 30 (NationPress) British tennis star Emma Raducanu has been granted a wildcard to participate in the qualifying rounds of the Abu Dhabi Open, marking her first entry into a qualifying draw since her monumental triumph at the 2021 US Open.
The 22-year-old, who achieved the remarkable feat of being the first qualifier ever to win a Grand Slam, will kick off her quest on Saturday as qualifying for the WTA 500 event commences.
Currently sitting at world number 56, Raducanu aims to rebuild her momentum following a varied start to her 2024 season. She advanced to the third round of the Australian Open but faced a challenging three-hour first-round defeat against Cristina Bucsa at the Singapore Open earlier this week.
Now, she confronts another significant challenge in Abu Dhabi, where she will compete alongside numerous top female players. Elena Rybakina will be defending her title, and Bencic will participate in Abu Dhabi for the first time since her victory in the inaugural event in 2023.
The roster also features Kasatkina, Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia, Spain’s Paula Badosa, and Tunisia’s Jabeur, who is expected to enjoy robust support from the local crowd.
Compounding her challenges, Raducanu enters the tournament without a permanent coach following Nick Cavaday’s exit due to health concerns. Currently, she is traveling with fitness coach Yutaka Nakamura, but has not yet announced a new coaching appointment.
Since her breathtaking victory in New York four years ago, where she won ten consecutive matches—including three in qualifying—without dropping a set, Raducanu has faced inconsistent form and various injuries.
