Emma Raducanu ruled out of 2026 US Open with stress fracture as injury struggles continue

Former champion suffers another setback

Emma Raducanu’s difficult 2026 season has taken another disappointing turn after the British No 1 confirmed she will miss the US Open due to a stress fracture in her right lower leg.

The 2021 US Open champion had already withdrawn from Wimbledon after suffering the injury during the grass-court season. Following further consultation with her medical team, the 23-year-old has now decided she will not be fit enough to compete in New York later this month.

The decision was expected given the seriousness of the injury, but it represents another major setback for a player who has struggled to maintain fitness since her breakthrough Grand Slam victory.

Another frustrating year for Raducanu

Raducanu had shown signs of improvement over the past year, but recurring physical problems have repeatedly interrupted her progress.

A foot injury affected her pre-season preparation before she spent around two-and-a-half months away from competition after suffering a post-viral illness earlier in February.

She eventually returned towards the end of the clay-court season and reunited with coach Andrew Richardson, the man who helped guide her to her historic US Open triumph in 2021.

However, their time together has been limited due to Raducanu’s ongoing fitness issues.

Queen’s Club success followed by injury blow

One of Raducanu’s brightest moments of 2026 came at the Queen’s Club tournament in June, where she reached her biggest final since winning in New York.

But that impressive run came at a cost, as the physical demands of the tournament contributed to her latest injury setback.

Raducanu had recently returned to training while wearing a protective boot, raising concerns about when she will be able to make a full comeback.

Her ranking is also expected to drop from her current position of No 49 in the world due to her absence.

Doubts over return before the end of 2026

Raducanu was not selected for Great Britain’s team for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in September, and questions remain over whether she will compete again this season.

Despite the setback, the former champion has remained positive. She recently shared an optimistic message from Switzerland, describing her break as the “best reset ever”, while also posting footage of herself practising serves with protection on her injured leg.

For now, Raducanu’s focus will be on recovery and returning to full fitness as she attempts to rebuild the career that once saw her become one of tennis’ biggest young stars.