Raducanu Withdraws from Italian Open Due to Illness

Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the Italian Open in Rome due to a post-viral illness, a decision announced shortly after she expressed optimism about her recovery.

Raducanu informed reporters that she felt she had "really turned a corner" and was feeling "so much better." She had not competed for almost two months, sidelined by the effects of a viral infection from February. Her last match was on March 8 in Indian Wells, California.

The withdrawal from the Italian Open, a 1000-level event, will not incur penalties. According to WTA rules, speaking to the media fulfilled the requirement to avoid a fine for an on-site withdrawal. This instance is considered a "continuing withdrawal" due to the same illness that caused her previous withdrawal.

Following this latest setback, Raducanu's participation in the French Open, beginning May 24, is now in doubt. She mentioned the importance of gaining clay-court experience for her future development. Raducanu also confirmed a recent training session with her former US Open-winning coach, Andrew Richardson, but stated they do not plan to reunite permanently.

She continues to work with hitting partner Alexis Canter and her physical therapist Emma Stewart. Raducanu described the post-viral illness symptoms as fatigue and lack of energy, acknowledging it is difficult to maintain peak performance levels during matches. She aimed to use the practice sessions in Rome to gauge her sharpness before the tournament.

A qualifier is set to replace Raducanu in the Italian Open draw.