Emma Raducanu Faces Back Issues Before French Open

PARIS — Emma Raducanu is confronting her fear of needles as she seeks treatment for ongoing back issues ahead of her French Open Round 1 match against Daria Kasatkina on Monday.

Raducanu experienced back spasms during her recent second-round defeat to Linda Fruhvirtova at the Strasbourg Open last week, hampering her preparations for Roland Garros. This year marks Raducanu’s second appearance in the French Open main draw, following her second-round finish in 2022.

The 20-year-old admitted her back is not fully healed, stating, “[The back is] not feeling 100%. I had a spasm in Strasbourg, and just been trying to manage it as best I can doing treatment.” She has undergone acupuncture, a method she had previously avoided due to her fear of needles.

“At the start of the year, I was so scared of needles. It was my biggest phobia. That was the only way I was going to be able to play Australia,” Raducanu said. “Ever since then, I’ve been kind of dipping my toes into it because I know it helps, even though I’m really scared of them.”

There seems to be a pattern for Raducanu, as she noted back issues have arisen during her clay-court appearances. “In 2024 and in 2022 when I played on the clay, I had… back issues. I think with the ball, it’s a lot higher bouncing, longer rallies,” she explained.

The British player has recognized the importance of understanding her limitations when it comes to injuries. Seemingly motivated by past experiences, she remarked, “I wish I would have listened to myself sooner… I know there was pain, and I knew it felt more than just soreness.”

Raducanu is one of seven British players competing in the first round of the tournament. Last year, all six British contestants faced first-round exits, but Raducanu expressed optimism this time around. “It’s nice to get some wins on the board on this surface, and as we all do that, we kind of give each other inspiration,” she said.

As she approaches her match, Raducanu’s determination to overcome her challenges and insights about injury management may inspire her push toward success at the French Open.