Why Emma Raducanu's decision to skip the Olympics despite being fully fit is right
Emma Raducanu has decided to skip the 2024 Olympics after being offered a wildcard entry to the event in Paris. The young Brit has struggled for form since her US Open triumph in 2021 and is currently ranked as the World No. 209. Recently, the 21-year-old returned to the grass court in the Nottingham Open where she was beaten in the semifinal by Katie Boulter.
Raducanu's decision to skip this year's Games comes as no surprise. She has struggled in the last couple of years and is yet to win a trophy since 2021. However, missing an iconic event like the Olympics is a bold decision especially when offered a wildcard entry by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
Emma Raducanu clears the air on her Paris Olympics decision
Emma Raducanu has admitted that she is prioritizing her body and health by opting out of the Olympics this year. The Brit has rejected a wildcard entry into the mega-event as she finds her way up the WTA rankings.
The 21-year-old has suffered serious injuries in her young career, having undergone three major surgeries on her wrists and ankle. Now, the former US Open champion is easing her way back on the WTA circuit by picking and choosing tournaments to compete in.
Raducanu even missed the French Open to focus on getting fully fit for the grass season. With the Olympics set to be held on the same clay courts in Paris, Raducanu turning down the 2024 Games invite is not surprising.
Emma Raducanu admitted that she is at peace with her decision and happy to gradually get her fitness levels back. The Olympics would have been too big a step too soon, according to the Brit.
"For me, it was pretty clear from the start. I do things my own way and at my own time, whenever I want, not in a diva way, but prioritising my body and my health. If I'm fit, if I'm giving 100 per cent, I know great things are coming. I just don't think there's any need to put additional stress on my body or any risks, especially with my history," Raducanu said.
Why Emma Raducanu is right about skipping the 2024 Paris Olympics
Despite the Olympics being a historic quadrennial event, Emma Raducanu is right to opt out of it. Only 21, Raducanu has suffered a lot already and will have many chances to represent Great Britain in the Olympics in the future.
While Raducanu is sure to participate in the Olympics during some point in her life, another serious injury at this stage of her career could prove to be too tough to recover from. The young Brit has to prioritize her physique and work her way back to the higher ranks in the women's game.
Even if Raducanu participated in the Paris Olympics, she would have a slim chance of winning a medal at the event. With top WTA stars including World No. 1 Iga Swiatek the favourites to win the gold, Raducanu's title dream would be far-fetched in Paris this year.
Another important factor in Emma Raducanu's decision to skip the Olympics could be the WTA points system. The tennis players do not get any points for competing at the Olympics and Raducanu could use that time to participate in other tournaments and climb higher on the WTA rankings.
With Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina at the peak of their powers, Raducanu is still some way from a return to the top of women's tennis. The 21-year-old needs to be patient and remain injury-free if she is to challenge for Major honours again.
Emma Raducanu's decision to skip the Olympics is sure to raise some eyeballs, but it is time for the Brit to focus on herself and get her joy back on the tennis court. The 21-year-old has many Olympics ahead of her but getting back to her best and playing without the cloud of injury over her head should be the utmost priority for the young Brit.