Emma Raducanu’s return to the WTA Tour has been a story of resilience and setbacks, and her latest chapter unfolded dramatically at the 2026 Qatar Open. The British star retired from her first-round match against Colombia’s Camila Osorio on February 10, trailing 0-2 in the deciding set after splitting the first two (6-2, 4-6). This withdrawal, prompted by medical attention for blood pressure, came mere days after a runner-up finish at the Transylvania Open—her first final since the historic 2021 US Open victory. For fans tracking Raducanu’s journey, the incident raises familiar questions about health management while underscoring her undeniable talent when fit.
The Match and Retirement Details
Raducanu started strongly in Doha, racing to a 3-0 lead and claiming the opening set 6-2 with aggressive play. Osorio mounted a comeback, breaking serve to lead 3-2 in the second and forcing errors to level at one set apiece (6-4).
The decider began poorly for Raducanu, who saved break points but succumbed when failing to chase a drop shot. After calling the trainer for blood pressure checks—similar to her Transylvania final—she briefly continued before retiring at 0-2 down.
This marked another early exit, echoing an October 2025 retirement in Wuhan amid similar health checks.
Transylvania Open Final: A Positive Step Forward
Raducanu’s Qatar appearance followed a breakthrough week in Romania. Reaching the Transylvania Open final—her first since Flushing Meadows 2021—she demonstrated returning form despite illness.
Facing Sorana Cirstea on home soil, Raducanu competed valiantly but fell in straight sets in just over an hour. Post-match, she disclosed battling a chest infection, yet praised the experience as motivation.
This runner-up finish signalled progress after a challenging period, including a second-round Australian Open exit in January 2026 and parting ways with coach Francis Roig—her ninth coaching change since turning professional.
Raducanu’s Career Challenges Since 2021 US Open
At 18, Raducanu’s fairy-tale US Open win as a qualifier made history: first qualifier to claim a major, youngest champion since 2004. Yet injuries and form dips followed.
Key setbacks include wrist, ankle, and back issues limiting play, plus multiple retirements. The 2023-24 period saw ACL-related concerns indirectly referenced through recovery focus.
Coaching instability persisted, with Roig’s summer 2025 appointment ending after Melbourne.
| Year/Event | Achievement/Outcome | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 US Open | Champion (qualifier) | Historic breakthrough |
| Post-2021 | Multiple injuries/retirements | Wrist, ankle, back issues |
| 2025 Transylvania Open | Runner-up | First final since 2021 |
| 2026 Qatar Open | First-round retirement | Health concerns; chest infection |
| Coaching Changes | 9 since 2021 | Latest: Split with Francis Roig |
Looking Ahead for Raducanu
At 23, Raducanu remains a talent with immense potential. Recent World Cup successes and finals appearance indicate upward trajectory when healthy.
Managing physical demands is crucial—balancing schedule, recovery, and support team stability. Fans hope this retirement proves minor, allowing sustained runs.
Raducanu’s story captivates: from teenage sensation to navigating professional hurdles. Her determination shines through adversity, promising more highlights if fitness aligns.
As the WTA season progresses, all eyes remain on Britain’s leading player—rooting for health and the consistency to match her undoubted skill.
