British tennis star Emma Raducanu endured a physically challenging first-round loss to world number 219 Zhu Lin at the Ningbo Open in China, raising concerns over her fitness and workload. Raducanu, the British women’s singles number one and world number 29, lost 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a gruelling two hours and 26 minutes, visibly hampered by physical issues during the match.

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Medical Concerns During the Match

Raducanu’s physical struggles were apparent as she required medical attention multiple times. During the second set, her blood pressure and vital signs were checked, and the physio provided her with food and fluids. Later, in the third set, she took a medical timeout for back treatment, which noticeably affected her movement and serve technique.

The lower back issue, which has flared intermittently, combined with a recent bout of illness, appeared to significantly impact her performance. Raducanu had previously retired from the first round of the Wuhan Open due to illness, and the effects seemed to linger into Ningbo.

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Match Analysis: Raducanu vs Zhu Lin

Despite a strong start, racing to a 3-0 lead and claiming the first set 6-3, Raducanu’s physical limitations became evident as the match progressed. Her first-serve success rate dropped to 51%, and her second serve was only 38% effective. Zhu Lin, using her experience to extend rallies, capitalized on Raducanu’s reduced mobility and consistency, eventually forcing a deciding set.

Raducanu’s errors increased in the third set, particularly when moving for forehands or executing her serve, ultimately allowing Zhu to take the match 6-1. Zhu Lin now faces top-seeded Mirra Andreeva in the last 16.

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A Gruelling Season Taking Its Toll

Raducanu’s 2025 season has been physically demanding, with 50 matches on the WTA Tour—her most since winning the 2021 US Open. This demanding schedule appears to be taking a toll on her body and endurance, with the lower back problem and recurring illness exacerbating fatigue.

Francis Roig, her coach for the season, is not accompanying her in Ningbo, adding to the challenges of managing recovery and strategy during tournaments. With two more events left—the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo and the Hong Kong Open—Raducanu faces a critical decision regarding whether to continue competing this year or rest to focus on 2026 preparation.

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Looking Ahead

After a near-upset of world number five Jessica Pegula in Beijing, Raducanu’s form has fluctuated, highlighting the physical and mental strain of a long season. Decisions over tournament participation and recovery will be key to ensuring she enters next year in optimal condition, both physically and mentally.

Raducanu’s supporters remain hopeful that with proper management, she can return to her top form, reclaim her consistency, and continue to compete among the elite in women’s tennis