Emma Raducanu cuts training short ahead of Wimbledon opener

Emma Raducanu’s Wimbledon campaign hangs in the balance after she abruptly ended her training session on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The British No. 1, seeded 30th, struggled with movement on her right ankle and left the court in a solemn mood just 15 minutes into practice.

What happened during training?

Raducanu, who had been managing a right foot injury since her run to the Queen’s Club final, returned to practice on Saturday wearing heavy tape on her ankle. After warming up with Anna Kalinskaya, the pair began a practice set on Court 3. Raducanu’s mobility issues became apparent as she struggled to push off her right ankle. Down 0-4, 0-15, she netted a backhand and signaled she could no longer continue.

Why is this concerning for Raducanu?

This setback marks the latest in a series of physical challenges for the 23-year-old. She missed most of the off-season due to a foot injury and later battled post-viral illness in early 2026. Despite reaching the Queen’s Club final, her body has repeatedly failed her. Raducanu withdrew from Wimbledon in 2023 after wrist and ankle surgeries and faced back pain ahead of the 2024 tournament.

What’s next for Raducanu?

Raducanu is scheduled to face Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic, ranked 60th, on Monday at 1pm on No. 1 Court. Her pre-tournament media duties were rescheduled to Sunday, adding to speculation about her fitness. If she plays, her focus will once again shift to managing her body rather than improving her game.