Emma Raducanu: Briton pulls out of December exhibition match

Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has withdrawn from an exhibition match in Macau as she continues her recovery from hand and foot surgeries.

Raducanu, who turns 21 today, has been out of action since April and hopes to return to the tour in January. However, the upcoming exhibition in China is too soon for her, leading organizers to search for a potential replacement.

Having fallen to 289 in the world rankings, Raducanu will be able to utilize a protected ranking of 103 next year due to her six-month absence from competition. This might secure her a place in the main draw of the Australian Open, but she may still require a wildcard for the WTA Tour events in Brisbane and Auckland.

In 2023, Raducanu has only played nine matches and underwent operations on both of her hands and left ankle. She suffered hand pain, caused by a bone near her wrists, for over a year, compelling her to seek treatment in August.

Despite slow progress initially, Raducanu has been steadily improving. However, she continues to lack a dedicated coach and support staff, citing infeasible circumstances and unsuccessful past partnerships.

Yet, her passion for the sport remains strong, and she is eager to make her comeback to competitive tennis after a challenging year filled with setbacks.