Britain's Emma Raducanu has been forced to pull out of the Italian Open, as the post-viral symptoms that have sidelined her for two months continue to linger. The 2021 US Open champion had been practicing in Rome since Saturday and even spoke to the media just 30 minutes before her withdrawal was made official—a requirement under WTA rules, which mandate players fulfill media duties even after pulling out, or face fines.

There was no clear signal that Raducanu was about to abandon her comeback. In fact, she sounded cautiously optimistic just before the announcement. "I feel really good right now in terms of where I am headed," she told BBC Sport. "I think I have put a lot of good work in the last three weeks, but it's relatively early on in my return. 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 hasn't played a match since March 8 at Indian Wells, missing the Miami Open and clay-court events in Linz and Madrid due to her ongoing health struggles. The 23-year-old has been training at the National Tennis Centre in London and the Ferrer Academy near Benidorm, but the transition to clay has proven challenging. "Coming on to the clay courts is much more physically demanding than potentially other surfaces, but I want to come back 100% ready," she said. "I have been building my way up slowly and looking forward to when I get out there."

Her team in Rome included friend and former LTA national coach Jane O'Donoghue, along with physio Emma Stewart—whose presence during interviews hinted that recovery, not competition, was still the priority. For tennis fans hoping to see Raducanu back in action, this setback is a reminder that patience is key. As she continues to rebuild her fitness and confidence, the focus remains on returning to the court when she's truly ready—not a moment sooner.