Emma Raducanu withdraws from Italian Open, two-month WTA Tour absence continues

Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Italian Open, the BBC reports, as the post-viral illness that has kept her off the WTA Tour continues to sideline her. The British player has now been absent from competitive action for two months.

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The 2021 US Open champion acknowledged she is in a better place but stated she is not yet fully recovered, explaining her decision to skip the Rome tournament. Raducanu had been aiming to return to action but decided her health needed more time before competing at the highest level.

Her withdrawal extends a difficult period for the 23-year-old, who has struggled with injuries and illness throughout the past season. The extended break comes as the tennis calendar moves toward the grass-court season and Wimbledon preparations.

Raducanu's management has indicated she is working toward a return but is prioritising a full recovery over a hasty comeback. The length of her absence has raised questions about her readiness for upcoming tournaments on different surfaces.

No timeline has been confirmed for her return to competitive play, with the focus remaining on rebuilding her fitness and health before stepping back onto the tour.