Emma Raducanu’s injury nightmare is continuing into 2025, with the British player now ruled out of this week’s WTA event in Auckland.
The sixth seed had been scheduled to face America’s Robin Montgomery on Tuesday in the ASB Classic, which traditionally helps players build up for the Australian Open.
But Raducanu’s preparation for the first Grand Slam of the year has been hit by a back problem.
She will now fly straight to Melbourne in a bid to be fit for the tournament, which begins on January 12.
“I tried my best to be ready,” said the world No.56. “I love Auckland and the fans here, but unfortunately I have picked up a back niggle and won’t be ready in time.”
The 22-year-old has now not played a WTA match since September after spraining ligaments in her foot at the Korea Open. The same injury then forced her to withdraw from the China Open, Ningbo Open, and Hong Kong Open.
And a lack of playing time is far from ideal preparation for the opening Grand Slam of the year, where Raducanu will be hoping to lay down a marker for 2025.
