Emma Raducanu is preparing for an explosive return to the WTA circuit after more than two months away, receiving a strong vote of confidence from former British number 1, Greg Rusedski. The 2021 US Open champion, who has been absent since her heavy defeat to Amanda Anisimova at the Indian Wells Open in March, now faces the challenge of regaining her competitive rhythm and physical form.
Raducanu has missed several tournaments, citing the “ongoing effects of a virus,” an uncommon explanation that raised doubts about her health and conditioning. However, the young Brit is now in Rome, preparing for the WTA 1000 event that starts this week. During training, Emma has been joined by promising junior Lilli Tagger, the 2025 French Open junior champion.
Greg Rusedski, who is also in Rome to debut as coach for Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, did not hide his admiration for the British tennis player’s performance: “This morning, while practicing with Joe on the outdoor courts, I saw Emma Raducanu practicing with Lilli Tagger, with Jane O’Donoghue coaching her. It was great to see her playing aggressively, hitting strong forehands. She seemed to be striking the ball really well, which is a very positive sign.”
Rusedski emphasized the importance of this moment for Raducanu, who has not played an official match since Indian Wells: “The conditions were fast, and she looked good in the training session. For all Raducanu fans, this could be the decisive week for her to regain momentum. I hope she stays healthy and can secure some important wins.”
In addition to Emma’s return, Rusedski highlighted the potential of young Austrian Lilli Tagger, who has been gaining attention since her junior title in Paris and is signed with Jannik Sinner’s management team. “Lilli has one of the best one-handed backhands on the circuit and I believe she will rise in the rankings. She’s not ready for the top 20 yet, but in two years she could be there. She is a player with great potential and very appealing to the market.”
This return to competition comes at a crucial moment for Raducanu, who has few points to defend in the Italian tournaments and at the 2025 French Open. A strong performance in these events could catapult her into the top 30 of the world rankings, consolidating her position and reigniting a career that captivated tennis fans around the globe.
Attention, tennis fans: the week in Rome could mark the beginning of a major comeback for Emma Raducanu, an athlete who promised much and is now fighting to regain prominence on the women’s circuit. Stay tuned to every point, as her return could be explosive – and expectations have never been higher.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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