“It’s been a long few weeks since I last competed. I’ve made good progress, good gains in the last few weeks,” said Emma Raducanu. The British No. 1 withdrew from the Italian Open due to a post-viral illness just minutes after completing her media obligations.
Raducanu has not played since March 8, when she lost to Amanda Anisimova at Indian Wells. She had been practicing in Rome for several days leading up to her withdrawal. If she had not fulfilled her media commitments, she would have faced a $1,000 fine according to WTA regulations.
The Italian Open will take place at the Foro Italico in Rome from May 5 to May 17, 2026. The women’s draw starts on May 5, while the men’s draw begins on May 6. Jannik Sinner aims to continue his dominant run in the men’s game at this event.
Despite her struggles, Raducanu could still participate in warm-up events ahead of Roland-Garros. Carlos Alcaraz is among the notable absentees from the men’s singles at the Italian Open.