Annabel Croft

Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from the US Open after suffering a stress fracture in her right lower leg, adding to a year marked by illness and recurring injuries. Former British No 1 Annabel Croft believes Raducanu may benefit from ending her 2026 season early to allow a full recovery and qualify for a protected ranking when she returns in 2027. Raducanu’s ranking is expected to fall from 49, although she could use a protected top-50 ranking if she misses at least six months. She was also omitted from Great Britain’s Billie Jean King Cup Finals team.