Raducanu withdrew from their first-round mixed doubles match on Saturday due to a sore wrist, aiming to avoid any risks before her fourth-round singles match on Sunday, which she lost 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 to qualifier Lulu Sun.
Judy Murray criticized Raducanu’s decision as ‘astonishing’ in a post on X but later clarified her comments as sarcastic and attributed the issue to tournament scheduling.
Raducanu, when asked about Murray’s remarks after her singles loss, stated, “I haven’t seen her reaction, so I don’t know. I’m sure she didn’t mean it.” She defended her choice, saying, “I don’t think it was a mistake because I was fine initially, but woke up with stiffness. I have to prioritize my singles and my body.”
Raducanu expressed, “I stand by the decision. It was difficult, but I believe many players in a similar situation would have made the same choice.”
“I believe in this sport, especially as an individual, you need to make your own decisions and prioritize yourself. Given my history, it was crucial for me to put myself first. Considering how I felt when I woke up yesterday, the decision was clear.”
Raducanu, who was a favorite for a Wimbledon quarter-final berth, faced qualifier Lulu Sun, who had never won a Grand Slam main-draw match until now. Sun delivered a remarkable performance, hitting 52 winners with a powerful forehand compared to Raducanu’s 19.
Raducanu expected a tough match, acknowledging Sun’s aggressive play and impressive form. Reflecting on her Wimbledon journey, Raducanu found positives, noting her victories over two top-10 players, Jessica Pegula and Maria Sakkari.
She expressed, “Beating two top-10 players in two weeks is significant for me. Six months ago, after surgery, I would have been pleased with a fourth-round finish. While I’m disappointed and always want more, I believe everything happens for a reason. This experience fuels my drive and makes me more determined.”
Raducanu added, “I don’t want success to come too easily or too quickly. I’ve experienced that with my US Open win. I’m making progress and regaining my motivation. I just want to keep building on that.”
