Real Reason Behind Emma Raducanu’s Shock United Cup Withdrawal Against Naomi Osaka Revealed

Emma Raducanu withdrew from appearing in her first match against Naomi Osaka in the United Cup. While it’s not clear which injury bothered Raducanu from turning up in her first match, her recurring foot issue is expected to be the reason.

Amid the speculations over her absence, Great Britain’s United Cup captain Tim Henman expressed optimism that Raducanu might be ready to feature in the team’s next tie against Greece.

“I got to be honest, she was very, very close,” he told Nine. “It was not an easy decision. She had been building up and practicing really well. I don’t think she is necessarily out of this tournament just yet.”

Katie Swan replaced Raducanu for the matchup against Osaka at RAC Arena.

Raducanu is a 2021 US Open champion, so it was expected to draw a huge crowd for her matchup against four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. Moreover, the British squad has already suffered the withdrawal of Jack Draper earlier this week. If Raducanu doesn’t recover in time, they may not have a chance in the ongoing United Cup in Perth and Sydney.

Billy Harris has given a strong start to Great Britain in their tie against Japan, beating Shintaro Mochizuki 7-6(4), 6-3 at the United Cup. Now, Japan’s chances of qualifying in the quarterfinals will be in the hands of Naomi Osaka who will be required to defeat Swan.

Emma Raducanu’s Constant Battle With Injuries

Emma Raducanu’s back spasms and foot issues continued in 2025 as well, leading her to miss several tournaments. She missed the Auckland Classic at the beginning of the year due to a back niggle.

Her 2025 season ended early due to several issues, including lower back discomfort and dizzy spells in humid conditions at the Wuhan Open and other Asian swing events.

Moreover, this past season, Raducanu also skipped team events like the Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers to recover from back and leg strain after the Miami Open.

Actually, Raducanu’s injury problems started after she won the 2021 US Open. In 2022, she suffered multiple retirements and withdrawals due to blisters, cramping, back pain, abdominal pain and other issues. In early 2023, Raducanu rolled her left ankle at the ASB Classic and retired in tears just before the Australian Open. She also missed the 2023 French Open and Wimbledon due to procedures and rehab.

Raducanu now faces a race against time to recover for the tie against Greece. But before that, let’s see where Great Britain is after their tie against Japan.