Reviving Raducanu: A Journey towards Career Resurgence
Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu is set to make a triumphant comeback at the Auckland Classic, feeling revitalized after successful ankle and wrist surgeries She describes her return as a rebirth, ready to reignite her career with renewed passion
Emma Raducanu of Britain expressed feeling "reborn" as she anticipates returning to the Auckland Classic next week after undergoing surgeries on her ankle and wrist. The former U.S. Open champion, who missed a significant portion of 2023 due to the operations, will be returning with a protected ranking, a year after she was forced to exit the tournament in tears following an ankle injury during a second round match.
"I feel like I've been reborn. I feel energized, prepared, joyful, and eager," Raducanu shared with reporters on Saturday.
Currently, Raducanu holds the 298th spot in the world rankings, after dropping from her career high of number 10 in July 2022.
Raducanu has struggled with injuries since winning her maiden grand slam at the US Open in 2021.
Angelika Warmuth/Reuters
She did not receive a wildcard for the Australian Open starting on Jan. 14 and will need to follow a path similar to her 2021 Flushing Meadows journey, where she made history as the first player in the Open Era to win a major title after going through the qualifying rounds.
She expressed that she was no longer burdened by the expectations that came after her New York victory. "In general, I feel more optimistic and carefree. I think that for two years after the U.S. Open, I felt a bit more pressure, but now I feel completely renewed," Raducanu expressed.
Raducanu has not advanced past the second round of a Grand Slam since her victory at Flushing Meadows. Despite facing criticism, she expressed happiness at being fit and ready to compete again.
"It's a relief not to have three casts on," she remarked. "Just being able to move around, shower, and do everyday tasks is something I really appreciate. I can even do my own hair, which feels great."
"Im just happy to be back playing."
The Auckland Classic will begin on Monday.
