Emma Raducanu is setting her sights on a comeback at the WTA Tour event in Strasbourg in two weeks, marking her potential return to competitive tennis after withdrawing from the Italian Open due to health concerns.
The 23-year-old British No. 1 has been sidelined since March, battling a post-viral infection that has kept her off the court. "I had six weeks almost of doing nothing just trying to recover from the virus, and it takes a lot out of you physically," Raducanu told BBC Sport before her withdrawal from Rome.
However, Raducanu's path to Strasbourg isn't guaranteed. She missed the entry deadline and is now reliant on a wildcard invitation to the WTA 500 event, which kicks off on May 17. The tournament hasn't yet confirmed whether it will grant her a place in the main draw.
There's reason for optimism: Raducanu received a wildcard for the same event last year and delivered an impressive performance, defeating top-20 player Daria Kasatkina before falling to American Danielle Collins. That run showcased the form that made her a US Open champion in 2021.
The timing is crucial. Strasbourg serves as the final tune-up before the French Open, and Raducanu—currently ranked 30th in the world—will no longer be seeded at Roland Garros if she's fit to compete. Every match in Strasbourg would be valuable preparation for the clay-court major.
For tennis fans and gear enthusiasts alike, Raducanu's potential return is a welcome sight. Whether she's wearing her signature performance wear or a fresh kit for the clay season, her comeback story adds excitement to the tour's European swing. Keep an eye on Strasbourg—it could be where the British star reignites her season.
