Emma Raducanu may not be representing her country in the Billie Jean King Cup in 2024 as she continues her comeback from injury.
The 21-year-old made her first Grand Slam appearance in a year at the Australian Open. This is after being sidelined for close to nine months with ankle and wrist injuries, which both required surgeries.
Raducanu won her first-round match convincingly. She then faced Wang Yafan in the following round. Unfortunately for her fans, she exited the opening Grand Slam of the year despite a great effort from Raducanu.
The 2021 US Open champion's effort was very impressive because of how ill she was feeling in the third set. Raducanu was visibly struggling with what she thought was a stomach bug, but courageously, the Brit did not retire and fought to the end.
However, this was still a reminder of how important it is for Raducanu to stay healthy after her previous long injury. That is why she is unsure about playing in the Billie Jean King Cup, with Britain set to be in action in April against France.
"I mean, of course, I always love representing my country. but that being said, I think because of the amount of niggles and the rehab process, I think whatever suits my schedule and my fitness the best is going to have to take priority, especially this year."
Raducanu then elaborated further by saying that a potential switching between surfaces could be problematic for her as she seeks to avoid another injury.
"If there's a change in surface straightaway, too close in succession, I think I have to evaluate what I do. The most sensible thing for me is staying healthy."
Although she did not completely rule out playing, it seems that Raducanu's participation in the team event is unlikely. After all the injury issues she has had, it is understandable that the former US Open champion is being cautious.
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