Emma Raducanu risked huge fine during controversial Italian Open exit | Tennis | Sport

British No. 1 Emma Raducanu risked a hefty penalty had she not held a press conference just prior to her withdrawal from the 2026 Italian Open. On-site withdrawal rules mean the threat of an £11,000 fine may well have played a part in her decision to undertake interviews despite knowing she was about to pull out of the tournament.

Tennis fans were left scratching their heads after Raducanu’s withdrawal because of post-viral illness, less than 30 minutes after she appeared positive in her pre-tournament media duties. Raducanu, 23, has practised in Rome since Saturday and seemed cheery while conducting interviews, so it was a shock to many when it was confirmed she wouldn’t be taking part mere minutes after telling BBC Sport she “felt really good” on the eve of her tournament.

But it has emerged that Raducanu saved herself a five-figure sum by going in front of the media despite her intentions. Both WTA and ATP stars are required to participate in at least one post-withdrawal activity, such as an interview or press conference. Failing to do so will result in a $15,000 (£11,000) fine for breaching the WTA’s (or ATP’s) on-site withdrawal rules.

One would have thought the Briton would have confirmed her withdrawal decision before addressing that in her media rounds. It’s this aspect of her exit in Italy that has led to confusion.

That being said, there was still a sense of hesitation among Raducanu’s optimism this week. She told BBC Sport: “I think I have put a lot of good work in the last three weeks, but it’s relatively early on in my return.

“I had six weeks almost of doing nothing just trying to recover from the virus, and it takes a lot out of you physically. I’m feeling in a better place – not 100 per cent – and I feel like I have got a great purpose and a way about how I am approaching things right now.”

There’s less than a fortnight to go before the 2026 French Open gets underway at Roland Garros on May 18. From there, it’s only a hop and a skip before Raducanu’s home Grand Slam returns at Wimbledon.

After such a long absence from the court, she may have to be somewhat ruthless in her return tactics in order to avoid burnout. However, she’s clearly running a cautious path in order to give herself the best chance of success when the stars do align.