Emma Raducanu has withdrawn from this week’s WTA event in Auckland, saying a back injury she has been nursing in recent weeks had not improved as much as she hoped. (More Tennis News)
Raducanu was seeded sixth for the tournament and was due to play her opening match of the new season on Tuesday against American Robin Montgomery.
The 22-year-old will now fly to Melbourne to continue her preparations for the Australian Open, which starts on January 12.
Second-seeded Elise Mertens also withdrew on Tuesday from the tournament, citing an ankle injury, with Jodie Burrage taking the Belgian’s place in the competition.
“Tried my best to be ready,” Raducanu said. “I love Auckland and the fans here, but unfortunately I picked up a back niggle and won’t be ready in time.”
