Emma Raducanu Questions Australian Open Organizers Over Match Schedule
British tennis professional Emma Raducanu has openly criticized the scheduling decisions for her first-round match at the Australian Open. The 2021 US Open champion expressed frustration with the timing, which comes after a series of travel disruptions affected her preparation.
Travel Delays Complicate Preparation
Raducanu participated in a warm-up event in Hobart, where she reached the quarter-finals. However, her flight to Melbourne experienced significant delays, forcing her to arrive only on Saturday. She now faces Thai player Mananchaya Sawangkaew in her opening match on Sunday, leaving minimal time for proper acclimatization and practice.
"You would love to have more time in the environment, more time practising," Raducanu told reporters. "I guess I was pretty much handed the schedule to try and turn it around. I have to make the most out of what is in front of me. It's easy to complain about it, but it's not going to help."
Midnight Start Adds to Concerns
The situation worsens with the scheduling of a men's match between Alexander Bublik and Jenson Brooksby before her own. This match begins at 7 PM local time and could extend to five sets, potentially pushing Raducanu's start time past midnight.
"I think it's very difficult to be scheduling women's matches after a potential five-set match," Raducanu stated. "To me, it doesn't really make as much sense."
Raducanu's Recent Comeback Journey
After her spectacular 2021 US Open victory, Raducanu struggled to maintain that peak performance. The 2025 season marked a turning point as she gradually climbed the rankings, returning to the Top 30 through increased match participation.
Her progress faced obstacles, including a planned collaboration with Rafael Nadal's former coach Francisco Roig that was disrupted by a foot injury. Currently ranked World No. 29, Raducanu continues to navigate challenges both on and off the court.
The Australian Open organizers now face scrutiny over their scheduling practices, particularly regarding women's matches following lengthy men's contests. Players and fans alike will watch how this situation unfolds as the tournament progresses.
