Raducanu pulls out of Wimbledon on eve of first match with a stress fracture

Updated
Emma Raducanu will miss Wimbledon
Emma Raducanu will miss WimbledonČTK / imago sportfotodienst / Mark Greenwood

British number one Emma Raducanu has suffered another injury setback after she announced that she would be pulling out of Wimbledon just a day before her first-round match with a stress fracture.

There had been doubts over Raducanu's participation at the All England Club when she was spotted wearing a protective boot on Wednesday. However, the 23-year-old spoke to the press today and said that she planned on playing through the 'niggle' at Wimbledon.

Despite this, the former US Open champion took to social media this evening to announce that her injury had developed into a stress fracture. 

"I can’t believe I’m saying this, but sadly I’ve had to withdraw from this year’s Wimbledon," she said.

"I’ve done everything possible to try to get to the start line tomorrow but after a final scan tonight, the niggle I’ve been managing has developed into a stress fracture and I’ve been medically advised to stop pushing through," the statement continued.

"Playing at Wimbledon, in front of a home crowd, means everything to me, so this is really difficult to process.

"I want to thank you all for your support and encouragement. Especially at a time like this, it is invaluable. I look forward to seeing you when I’m back."

Raducanu was due to face Antonia Ruzic on Monday, but her grass-court season has now been cut short in what is another devastating blow for a player who has suffered her fair share of injury woes over the last few years.