STRASBOURG - British tennis star Emma Raducanu has set her sights on a return to competition at the Internationaux de Strasbourg later this month. The 23-year-old is looking to regain her match fitness and momentum after a health-related setback forced her out of the Italian Open this week.

Health Setbacks and Recovery Goals

Raducanu’s withdrawal from the Rome Masters came as a surprise to fans, particularly as she had just completed a series of media engagements minutes before the announcement. The former US Open champion revealed she is still battling the lingering effects of a post-viral infection that has sidelined her since March.

Speaking on her recovery journey, Raducanu emphasized the physical toll of the virus:

"I had almost six weeks of doing nothing, just trying to recover. It takes a lot out of you physically, and I'm simply not at 100% yet."

The decision to skip Rome was made to ensure she is fully prepared for the clay-court season's climax. By targeting the WTA 500 event in Strasbourg, which begins on May 17, Raducanu hopes to secure much-needed match play before heading to Roland Garros. However, her participation remains uncertain as she missed the initial entry deadline and is now entirely dependent on receiving a wildcard from tournament organizers.

Mixed Fortunes for British Contenders in Rome

While Raducanu focuses on her health, other British players faced a challenging week at the Foro Italico. British number three Katie Boulter exited the Rome Masters after a grueling first-round battle against Eva Lys.

Boulter showed incredible resilience, fighting back in the second set to level the match, but ultimately fell in a tight three-setter: 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. The loss follows a second-round exit in Madrid last week, where she was defeated by world number five Jessica Pegula. Despite the early exit, the 29-year-old remains a key figure in the British lineup as the tour moves toward the grass-court season.

On the men's side, Jacob Fearnley saw his opening match against France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard interrupted by inclement weather. Fearnley was in a strong position, leading the first set 5-3, before heavy rain forced officials to suspend play. The match is scheduled to be completed on Thursday, with Fearnley looking to secure a spot in the second round.

Looking Ahead to the French Open

The next few weeks are critical for Raducanu's season. If she competes in Strasbourg, she will be looking to replicate her success from last year's event, where she secured an impressive victory over Daria Kasatkina. A strong showing is essential, as she is currently set to be unseeded for the French Open, meaning she could face a top-ranked opponent in the very first round.