‘I feel sorry for Emma’ – Raducanu’s opponent is every tennis fan as Korea Open bid ruined

Emma Raducanu retired from her Korea Open quarter-final match with injury on Saturday morning.

The British tennis star was in the last-eight after a promising start to the tournament in Seoul, but was forced to pull out of her clash with Daria Kasatkina after losing the first set.

Raducanu’s hopes for a strong end to 2024 have suffered a big blowAFP

Raducanu called time on the match with just 32 minutes on the clock due to a problem with her left foot which seemed to be affecting her movement around the court as well as her serve.

The 21-year-old looked uncomfortable as she lost the first set 6-1. Having gone 2-0 down, she broke back to make it 2-1 but then called for the physio with the score at 4-1.

She was given painkillers, but then only lasted two more games before deciding to retire from the match at the end of the set.

It’s another disappointing end to a tournament for Raducanu, who was looking to end 2024 strong.

Raducanu was aiming to compete in a run of tournament in Asia after years of injury frustration that have dogged her career since her sensational US Open victory at the age of 18.

But now that goal is in doubt with the British No.2 back on the treatment table, much to the disappointment of tennis fans everywhere, including her quarter-final opponent.

“I feel sorry for Emma for retiring during the match,” said Kasatkina after her bye to the semi-final.

“It’s a pity to get the injury, especially in the deeper stages of the tournament.

“I wish her a speedy recovery and to get ready for the next tournament. I know that this Asian swing is important for her.”

More to follow…