Raducanu Pulls Out of United Cup Opener Due to Injury

In a surprising turn of events, Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from her opening match at the United Cup, citing an unknown injury. The 23-year-old was set to face off against Japan's Naomi Osaka in Perth on Sunday but was replaced by Katie Swan in the women's singles. According to Great Britain captain Tim Henman, Raducanu was 'very, very close' to competing and is hopeful that she won't miss the entire tournament. Raducanu has been out of action since October, when she ended her 2025 season early due to illness in China. Britain went on to defeat Japan 2-1, with Billy Harris beating Shintaro Mochizuki and doubles pairing Neal Skupski and Olivia Nicholls clinching the tie. Henman praised the team's spirit, saying, 'Their work ethic and camaraderie have been outstanding.' The United Cup features 18 countries split into six groups, with each tie consisting of one men's, one women's, and one mixed doubles match. Britain will next face Greece on Monday, while Raducanu's status for the tournament remains uncertain.