News

Emma Raducanu flooded with support after she has to retire from Wimbledon match for medical reasons

<p>The 18-year-old receives medical care during match against Ajla Tomljanovic</p>

The 18-year-old receives medical care during match against Ajla Tomljanovic

AFP via Getty Images

British teenager, Emma Raducanu, was faced with a heartbreaking decision to withdraw from Monday’s Wimbledon match against Australian, Ajla Tomljanovic, for medical reasons.

<p>Emma Raducanu </p>“She really did her country proud - we all wish her a speedy recovery”Getty Images

While the nature of the medical reason hasn’t yet been disclosed, the 18-year-old looked as though she was struggling to breathe. Calling on the medics, Raducanu left the court for just under five minutes before the match was called off.

Taking to their official Twitter account,  Wimbledon announced:

“Due to medical reasons, Emma Raducanu has retired from this match - but what an incredible run to the fourth round it was #Wimbledon

Fans took to Twitter with an overwhelming show of support, praise, and ‘get well soon’ messages.

One highlighted Raducanu’s incredible achievement, saying ‘she should be so proud of herself’.

Another pointed out the teen’s bright future ahead, “beginning for a future superstar I’m sure”.

One fan was ‘gutted’ but in awe of her performance on Monday.

Presenter, Dan Walker, sent his well-wishes for the 18-year-old.

“Britain really does have a top, top player in the making”, one pointed out.

“She did herself and her country proud”, one said.

Another tweeted their admiration for the young star.

The teenager did not take part in a press conference, nor was there any clarification given on what had caused her breathing problems.

Australian opposition, Ajla Tomljanovic, spoke to the BBC on the court. She graciously said: “I’m really kind of shocked and it's so bittersweet - Emma must be really hurt if she came to the decision to retire, as a Brit playing at home.

“This must be so hard for her but it is the nature of the sport, I’m wishing her all the best.

“The beginning was really nervous from both sides but at the end of the first set, we really started to play both tennis.

“In the second I started to step up but if Emma was hurt then of course that explains it.

“It hasn’t really sunk in that I’m in the quarters because of the circumstances but to play Ash (Barty) in the quarters and meaning one Australian is going through to the semis is great, I’m sure everyone at home is pleased.”

Get well soon, Emma.

The Conversation (0)