Russian 22nd seed Ekaterina Alexandrova has withdrawn from Wimbledon 2024 due to illness, just before her highly anticipated opening-round match against Britain’s Emma Raducanu. This unexpected development has paved the way for Mexican lucky loser Renata Zarazua to step in and compete on Centre Court.
Alexandrova’s Withdrawal
Ekaterina Alexandrova’s Withdrawal, ranked 22nd, has decided to pull out of Wimbledon due to illness. This decision comes as a significant setback for the 29-year-old Russian, who achieved her best performance at the All England Club last year by reaching the fourth round. Alexandrova’s absence reshapes the tournament dynamics, as she was considered a formidable competitor with her flat ball-striking style well-suited to grass courts.
Raducanu’s Comeback
Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, is making her return to Wimbledon after missing last year’s event due to surgeries on her hands and ankle. The 21-year-old British hope has never advanced beyond the fourth round of her home Grand Slam, but she is determined to change that this year.
Raducanu’s preparation for Wimbledon 2024 has been solid, with semifinal finishes in Nottingham and quarterfinals in Eastbourne. Notably, she secured her first victory against a top-10 player, defeating Jessica Pegula in June. Raducanu expressed her excitement about her return, stating, “I feel a lot more comfortable this year. There’s a lot less going on. There’s a lot less stress or chaos.”
Zarazua Steps In
Renata Zarazua, the lucky loser from Mexico, will now face Raducanu in the opening round. Zarazua lost to McCartney Kessler in the qualifying rounds but was given another chance following Alexandrova’s withdrawal. Zarazua’s previous appearance at a Grand Slam was at the 2024 French Open, where she lost in the first round.
Wimbledon 2024: How to Watch
Wimbledon 2024 runs from Monday, July 1, to Sunday, July 14, at the All England Tennis Club in London’s SW19. Fans can catch all the live action exclusively on BBC TV and BBC iPlayer. Additionally, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, and BBC Sounds will provide live match coverage and updates.
Anticipation for Raducanu’s Match
Emma Raducanu’s upcoming match against Renata Zarazua on Centre Court is highly anticipated. Raducanu’s journey has been a rollercoaster, from her sensational debut in 2021, where she reached the fourth round, to dealing with injuries and surgeries. Her recent form and consistent training have bolstered her confidence. “For me, I feel like it’s just a great opportunity to try to get a good victory, try to enjoy playing how I have been in the last few weeks, and just get back into it,” Raducanu commented.
Looking Forward
The unexpected changes in the draw add an element of unpredictability to Wimbledon 2024. As Raducanu faces Zarazua, fans are eager to see if she can capitalize on this opportunity and make a deep run in the tournament. Wimbledon remains one of the most prestigious events in tennis, and each match brings its own drama and excitement.
Stay tuned to see how Wimbledon 2024 unfolds and whether Emma Raducanu can make a triumphant return to Centre Court.
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