The 2024 Australian Open is set to welcome a whole bunch of stars onto the tour. While few have confirmed their places, some players are unsure whether they can play in the event. One of those players is Emma Raducanu, who is set to return to the WTA tour. Raducanu last played a match in April and has been affected by injuries since then.
The former world No. 10 initially planned to enter the Australian Open through her protected rankings. However, the situation is complicated, as many other players with higher rankings use the same method. Raducanu can enter the main draw if six or more players withdraw from the competition. Raducanu will have to play the qualifying rounds if that doesn’t happen.
Heard Emma Raducanu has entered the Australian Open with her protected ranking of 103. On Facebook.
As of now Emma is in the qualifying draw but if there are a number of withdrawals then she will enter the main draw. No news yet on any warm up tournaments . Let’s see first pic.twitter.com/hNp1zdXrPz
— Veronica RF. (@VeronicaHoungan) December 4, 2023
The Australian Open will begin in the second week of January. The qualifying rounds will start on January 8 and go on for three days. Raducanu had already begun practicing for Australia a few weeks back and had been recovering from injuries on both her wrists and ankle. She will compete in the first week of January, either in Auckland or Adelaide.
Emma Raducanu reveals comeback strategies for the 2024 season
Raducanu is mentally and physically prepared to play matches on the tour. The 21-year-old understands that it will take time for things to get back to normal, and she will expect quick results. She is focusing on her long-term goals and remains patient after her surgeries. Raducanu feels she is in a much better space right now, and her mindset will improve after each match.
The 2021 US Open winner struggled to stay motivated during her comeback journey. She spent a lot of time doing the same exercises in the gym. Raducanu also practiced a few times with Kyle Edmund as she shared videos of them rallying on the court. She kept herself occupied by playing the piano and also practicing painting. The first few weeks in January will be crucial for the young player.
“I feel like mentally I’m in a better place to compete now”@EmmaRaducanu sits down with @LauraRobson5 to discuss her rehab journey and tennis future 🎾💭 pic.twitter.com/gBiw7aCgRX
— Amazon Prime Video Sport (@primevideosport) November 3, 2023
The fans are eagerly waiting for Raducanu to get back on the court. Her last grand slam match was at this year’s Australian Open. Raducanu lost to Coco Gauff in the second round in straight sets. Next year, things will be different in Melbourne as the current set of top players will meet the older ones. Raducanu hopes to surprise her rivals on the court as her fans continue cheering from the stands.