Emma Raducanu Criticizes 2026 Australian Open Schedule
Emma Raducanu, the British tennis star, expressed concerns over the scheduling of the 2026 Australian Open. Seeded 28th in the tournament, she arrived in Melbourne only a day before her match. This was following her quarterfinal appearance at the Hobart International.
2026 Australian Open: Raducanu’s Schedule Challenges
Raducanu’s first match is set for Sunday against the relatively unknown Thai player, Mananchaya Sawangkaew. Compounding her challenges, Raducanu was placed in the second night session on Margaret Court Arena. This session follows a men’s match scheduled to start at 7 p.m. local time, which raises concerns about a late start.
Adjustment to a Tight Schedule
Marking her preparation, Raducanu planned her initial practice for Saturday at 9 p.m. She commented on the difficulty of adjusting to this tight scheduling. “You would love to have more time in the environment, more time practising,” she said. However, Raducanu acknowledged that she must make the best of the situation handed to her.
- First match: Sunday against Mananchaya Sawangkaew
- Initial practice planned for 9 p.m. on Saturday
- Second night match scheduled on Margaret Court Arena
Health and Performance Concerns
The 23-year-old athlete has been dealing with physical issues, particularly a foot injury that curtailed her pre-season preparations. Despite these challenges, she noted improvements in her condition. “I’ve been managing it for the last few months,” said Raducanu, expressing optimism about her progress.
During the United Cup, Raducanu faced Maria Sakkari and later won against Camila Osorio in Hobart but lost to Australian Taylah Preston. She reflected on the importance of patience, emphasizing that the long tennis season allows room for gradual improvement.
Match Preview: Facing Sawangkaew
Although Sawangkaew holds a low ranking—195th—Raducanu remains cautious. The Thai player has recently claimed a title, showcasing her competitive prowess. Raducanu recognizes the potential pitfalls of underestimating opponents. “It’s a dangerous situation to be in,” she remarked, recognizing the unpredictability of her first-round match.
