Emma Raducanu has spoken out following her selection to represent Great Britain at the upcoming United Cup tournament in January. The British tennis sensation, who previously triumphed at the US Open, will partner with fellow player Jack Draper for the mixed-gender event.
Both Raducanu and Draper had to end their respective seasons prematurely due to health issues. Raducanu withdrew from competitions for medical reasons, while Draper faced challenges with an arm injury.
The duo is gearing up for their debut at the United Cup, with Raducanu opting out of the Billie Jean King Cup to focus on individual tournaments in Asia. Despite this, Raducanu expressed her enthusiasm for playing alongside Draper, emphasizing the honor of representing Team GB and the excitement of competing in Australia.
Draper also shared his excitement for the upcoming tournament, eager to return to the court and compete in a new setting. Both players are preparing for the United Cup, aiming to kick off their 2026 seasons before heading to the Australian Open.
Raducanu encountered difficulties during the Asian swing post-US Open, including health concerns that led to her withdrawal from the last tournaments of the year. On the other hand, Draper faced challenges with an arm injury following Wimbledon, making a brief comeback at the US Open before being sidelined again due to bone bruising.
While Draper is expected to make his comeback at the UTS London exhibition event, Raducanu is set to engage in an exhibition match against Amanda Anisimova in Miami. The focus for both players remains on the United Cup and the subsequent Australian Open as they gear up for the upcoming tennis season.