Emma Laducanu is scheduled to return from illness at next week’s Strasbourg International Tournament.
The British number one has not played a tournament since Indian Wells in March due to a viral infection since she first felt unwell in February, missing her fourth consecutive tournament.
Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, went to Rome to practice for the Italian Open, but ultimately decided he wasn’t ready to return yet.
Earning a wildcard in Strasbourg means the 23-year-old will gain valuable time on clay ahead of the French Open, which begins on May 24. Raducanu also entered the tournament 12 months ago as a wildcard, reaching the second round.
It has been another difficult start to the season health-wise for Raducanu, who began his recovery from a foot problem in 2026 and is without a coach after parting ways with Francisco Roig after the Australian Open. Due to her absence from the tour, her world ranking dropped to 30th place.
“After contracting the virus, it’s been quite difficult. I feel exhausted, I feel tired, I don’t have any energy. It was difficult and it lasted for quite a long time,” Raducanu told reporters in Rome about his illness. “I can’t say I’m 100% at the moment. I’m still building my way back. It’s difficult to maintain that.”
However, Raducanu was upbeat about his recovery, adding: “I think I’ve really turned the corner and I’m feeling really good. I feel great on the court.”
