Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has accepted a wildcard entry into the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, marking her return to one of the most competitive WTA 1000 tournaments. The event, scheduled from February 16 to 23, 2025, will take place at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, featuring nine of the world’s top ten players.
A Crucial Opportunity for Raducanu
Raducanu has struggled with early exits in recent tournaments, losing in the first round of her last four appearances, including defeats to Marketa Vondrousova and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Despite her current No. 60 world ranking, she remains a strong crowd-puller and a key player to watch in Dubai.
This will be her 13th wildcard entry in the last 18 tournaments, highlighting her continued marketability and the belief that she can rediscover her Grand Slam-winning form.
Who Else is Competing?
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships will feature a star-studded lineup, including:
- Iga Świątek (World No. 1)
- Aryna Sabalenka
- Coco Gauff
- Elena Rybakina
- Jessica Pegula
Raducanu will need to bring her best performance to compete against some of the toughest names in women’s tennis.
Coaching & Preparation
Raducanu will be supported in Dubai by her mentor, Jane O’Donoghue, and fitness trainer, Yutaka Nakamura. However, she is currently without a permanent coach, following Nick Cavaday’s departure due to health reasons.
Her preparation for the event has included an intense fitness regimen and tactical adjustments, aiming to regain her form and confidence on the WTA Tour.
Tickets & How to Watch
Fans eager to watch Raducanu in action can purchase tickets through the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships’ official website. Matches will also be broadcast on major sports networks and streaming platforms.
Can Raducanu Bounce Back in Dubai?
With a tough draw ahead, Raducanu’s wildcard entry in Dubai presents a crucial opportunity for her to turn around her season. Tennis fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if she can recapture the magic of her US Open run and make a deep impact in the tournament.