Just In: Tennis Fans Left Confused as Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz’s Disagreement Finally Emerges, as the Brit Makes Her Feelings Clear
Emma Raducanu as insisted that the gruelling tennis schedule is not something “to complain about”, despite high-profile players criticising the relentless calendar. Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper are among those who have expressed concerns, as most Masters 1000 tournaments have been extended to last 12 days, with six mandatory 500-point events also on the WTA Tour.
Former US Open champion Raducanu played a whopping 50 matches this year – her highest in a single season – winning 28 of them, so she understands the strain of constantly competing on the tour..
However, the 23-year-old is keen to set a positive example for the next generation of tennis stars.
Raducanu explained: “Of course, the challenges of the tour, it’s getting longer. The weeks are longer, and I think more tournaments are mandatory, so many tournaments that we have to play are mandatory and longer.
“It’s not just the Masters, it’s also the 500s as well. I think that’s a challenge. I don’t necessarily think it’s something to complain about because it’s what we are given. And we are making a great living as well.
“I mean, it’s not all glamorous. There are definitely times when it’s very difficult and we are flagging mentally, physically, everything hurts. But at the same time, what are we going to do about it? I am sure there are certain people who go to work and their bosses make them do something, but they have to do it, it’s their job.”
Last year, world No. 1 Alcaraz voiced his concerns about the packed tennis calendar, stating that organisers were “going to kill us in some way”.
British ace Draper has also frequently expressed worries about the gruelling schedule leading to burnout and injuries. Iga Swiatek even confessed she might have to start missing some tournaments to ensure she gets a proper rest.
However, Raducanu doesn’t agree with their approach. “If we put up a front that isn’t complaining, I think that is a better example to the people watching, trying to get into tennis, the younger people, if they see all the top players moaning about the calendar, I don’t think that’s necessarily inspiring to look up to,” she said.
The British No. 1 used to be more selective with her tournament participation, particularly after being forced to end her 2023 season early to undergo three surgeries. while she’s also been plagued by persistent back issues.
But this year, Raducanu has committed to playing more frequently and has brought on board a new physiotherapist, Emma Stewart, to help her body cope with the increased demands. Stewart, who previously worked on the WTA Tour and assisted Raducanu with her back problems before joining British Rowing, is now a key part of the team.
I think what she brings to the team, she’s very thorough. She crosses every T, dots every I. And I think it’s a really big benefit, to be honest, to have someone who can do both strength and conditioning, and physio,” the 23-year-old explained.
“I think because when you’re in the gym doing a certain exercise, she knows my body’s weaknesses. She knows where I’m a little bit prone to maybe picking up some injuries, and how to build a program around that, to strengthen those areas.
