Raducanu targets WTA Tour return in Strasbourg

Emma Raducanu is targeting a return to the WTA Tour at the Strasbourg tournament starting May 17, 2026. The British number one is seeking a comeback after withdrawing from the Italian Open on May 5, 2026, due to health reasons.

Raducanu pulled out of the event in Rome shortly after completing a round of media interviews. She indicated that she does not feel fully recovered from a post-viral infection that has sidelined her from professional competition since March.

The athlete’s most recent competitive match took place on March 8, 2026, at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, where she suffered a third-round loss to Amanda Anisimova. Following that defeat, Raducanu missed the Miami Open as well as clay-court events in Linz, and Madrid.

Despite her absence from the tour, Raducanu has remained active in training. She has spent recent weeks practicing at the Ferrer Academy near Benidorm and the National Tennis Centre in London.

During her time in Rome, she was accompanied by physio Emma Stewart and Jane O’Donoghue, a friend and former national coach for the LTA.

Raducanu spoke about the physical toll of her illness and the gradual nature of her recovery process.

I had six weeks almost of doing nothing just trying to recover from the virus, and it takes a lot out of you physically.

Emma Raducanu

While expressing optimism about her trajectory, the 23-year-old noted that she is not yet at full strength. She stated that she is feeling in a better place – not 100% and believes she has a clear purpose in her current approach.

The transition to clay has presented additional challenges for the British player. Raducanu observed that competing on clay courts is much more physically demanding than other surfaces, emphasizing her desire to return only when she is 100% ready.

Strasbourg Return and Wildcard Status

Raducanu’s participation in the Strasbourg event is not yet guaranteed, as she missed the entry deadline and is now reliant on receiving a wildcard. As of May 6, 2026, the tournament organizers have not confirmed if a wildcard will be granted.

Raducanu has previous experience at the WTA 500 event. In 2025, she entered the tournament via a wildcard and defeated Daria Kasatkina, a top 20 player, before losing to Danielle Collins in three sets.

The timing of the Strasbourg tournament is critical, as it takes place the week immediately preceding the French Open. Due to her period of inactivity, Raducanu will no longer be seeded for the French Open, provided she is fit to compete.

The withdrawal from Rome occurred just 30 minutes after Raducanu spoke with the media. Under WTA rules, players are required to fulfill media obligations on site even if they withdraw from a tournament to avoid potential fines.