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Emma Raducanu Suffers Illness-Fueled Exit at Dubai Tennis Championships
The British tennis star was unable to overcome a health issue in her loss to a lucky loser at the tournament.
Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:58am
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A neon-hued, expressionist depiction of the emotional rollercoaster of Raducanu's illness-plagued match at the Dubai Tennis Championships.Indian Wells TodayEmma Raducanu, the former US Open champion, was defeated by Antonia Ruzic, a lucky loser, at the Dubai Tennis Championships. Raducanu had been scheduled to face Elisabetta Cocciaretto, but Cocciaretto withdrew due to a thigh injury. Raducanu struggled with illness during the match, calling for medical assistance after losing the first set 6-1. Despite fighting back to win the second set, Raducanu ultimately fell to Ruzic in three sets.
Why it matters
Raducanu's loss continues a string of setbacks for the young British star, who has been battling illness and injury. The Dubai Tennis Championships have also been plagued by a series of high-profile withdrawals, leaving the draw in disarray and opening the door for lucky losers like Ruzic.
The details
Raducanu's match against Ruzic was a rollercoaster ride. After losing the first set 6-1 in 30 minutes, Raducanu called for medical assistance. She seemed to regain some energy with the help of a physio and doctor, but her movement was still hindered. Raducanu fought back to win the second set 6-4, but Ruzic ultimately prevailed in the deciding set 6-2 after a grueling two-hour and 20-minute match.
- Raducanu was scheduled to face Elisabetta Cocciaretto, but Cocciaretto withdrew due to a thigh injury.
- Ruzic, ranked 67th in the world, stepped in as a last-minute replacement after losing in the first round of qualifying.
The players
Emma Raducanu
The British tennis sensation and former US Open champion who has been battling illness and injury.
Antonia Ruzic
A Croatian tennis player ranked 67th in the world who defeated Raducanu as a lucky loser.
Elisabetta Cocciaretto
The player Raducanu was originally scheduled to face, but she withdrew due to a thigh injury.
What’s next
Raducanu will now focus on regaining her form in time for the 'Sunshine Double,' starting in Indian Wells, California.
The takeaway
Raducanu's loss in Dubai highlights the challenges young athletes can face when dealing with illness and injury, and the importance of managing their health and recovery to maintain peak performance.
