Emma Raducanu Retires Due to Heat Illness at Wuhan Open

WUHAN, China — Emma Raducanu retired from her first-round match at the Wuhan Open on Tuesday due to illness, trailing 6-1, 4-1 against American Ann Li.

Raducanu appeared sluggish throughout the match and called for a medical timeout in the second set, during which her blood pressure was checked. The match was played in oppressive heat, with temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees) and humidity near 70 percent.

On social media, Raducanu had shared a weather app screenshot the previous day, indicating that the outdoor temperature felt like 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees). A representative for Raducanu did not respond immediately regarding whether other factors contributed to her condition.

Wuhan Open organizers had previously suspended play due to extreme heat on the opening day, later partially closing the roof on the main show court for Raducanu’s match. Under the WTA’s Heat Rule, players can take a 10-minute heat break when the wet-bulb globe temperature exceeds 27 degrees Celsius (86.1 degrees).

Raducanu’s retirement marks the third consecutive tournament in which the 22-year-old has faced challenges, building on recent frustrations where she held match points against Barbora Krejcikova and Jessica Pegula but ultimately lost both matches at the Korea Open and China Open.

In her match against Li, Raducanu managed only three winners compared to 15 unforced errors in the first set. Despite holding serve for the first time in the second set after surviving four double faults, her physical state diminished quickly.

After the medical timeout, Raducanu was unable to continue, and Li advanced to the second round following the walkover. Li commented post-match, wishing Raducanu a speedy recovery, stating, “I hope she feels better.”

As she plans for upcoming tournaments in Ningbo and Hong Kong, Raducanu’s recent struggles have emphasized the demanding nature of professional tennis. She remains ranked No. 30 and is looking to improve ahead of the Australian Open in January.