Tim Henman has backed Emma Raducanu after her controversial decision to skip two build-up tournaments for the US Open. After a harrowing three years following her very own fairytale of New York in September 2021, the British No.2 has shown signs of being rejuvenated this season and is back up to No.67 in the world rankings.
But she’s proved a divisive figure with fans of late, denying Andy Murray a farewell match at Wimbledon after withdrawing from the mixed doubles to focus on her singles campaign.
And since arriving at Flushing Meadows, she’s been criticised for labelling Murray “old news,” after being asked if it was strange not to have the British icon around on the circuit.
The 21-year-old has come under further fire for choosing not to play in qualifiers in Toronto or Cincinnati. She was then denied a wildcard into either event, leaving her short of match practice for the final Grand Slam of the year.
That followed her opting to miss the 2024 Paris Olympics this summer in order to prioritise her fitness. She instead chose to compete in events in America, which she later labelled “100 per cent the right option.”
And Henman has defended the star, who has had to managed her workload since returning to the circuit after undergoing wrist and ankle surgeries last year. “I think it’s a little more frustrating if you don’t get into those tournaments but give her another three to six months she’ll be a direct entry into those biggest and best events,” he told Sky Sports.
“But there’s no rush to play tournaments. She’s still only 21 because she’s been around for so long but when she had the surgeries, two on her wrists and one on her foot, that was actually a blessing in disguise.
“It really gave her a step back and really look at her general fitness and resilience to build the foundation and compete on tour. When you look at the events that she’s played, she’s played some great tennis.”
Henman also argued that missing out on wildcard invitations was “not really a blow” and backed her to impress again at Flushing Meadows. “She’s played very well on hardcourts, she’s played well on clay and grass, so there will be plenty more opportunity ahead,” he said.
Raducanu begins her US Open campaign against Sofia Kenin later this evening Tuesday. If the 21-year-old makes it into the second round, she will likely face home favourite and No.6 seed Jessica Pegula.
Her last Slam outing at Wimbledon this year saw her reach the fourth round stage before losing to Lulu Sun. It was the first time she had reached that stage of a major event since her remarkable US Open triumph.
