Emma Raducanu found herself defending a controversial decision that marked the end of Andy Murray’s Wimbledon career. Scheduled to partner with the former champion on Saturday, Raducanu withdrew citing a wrist injury ahead of her fourth-round singles match against Lulu Sun, which she lost 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 on Centre Court.
The move drew criticism as it dashed Murray’s hopes for a final appearance at the All England Club. Hindered by recovery from spinal cyst surgery, Murray had already exited the men’s singles and doubles in the tournament’s early rounds alongside his brother Jamie.
Murray expressed disappointment over Raducanu’s decision, echoed by his mother Judy, who initially called it “astonishing” before clarifying it was sarcastic and understanding Raducanu’s perspective.
Responding to the backlash, Raducanu defended her choice: “Yesterday morning I woke up with stiffness. I have to prioritize myself, my singles, and my body. Of course, I didn’t want to take his last match away from him, but in this situation, many players would have made the same call, prioritizing their own well-being.”
Raducanu acknowledged the cloud surrounding her decision but stood firm: “People are entitled to their opinions. In this sport, you have to make tough decisions and prioritize yourself. With my history, I had to put myself first.”
Looking ahead, Murray plans to retire after the Paris Olympics in July. Raducanu hopes he gets another fitting farewell: “He’s a champion. Hopefully, he’ll have another farewell at the Olympics.”
Despite the mixed reactions, Raducanu remains focused on her resurgence in tennis: “It just makes me more determined. Tennis is all I want to do. I’ve rediscovered my passion and I want to build on that.”
