Emma Raducanu has defended the decision to withdraw from mixed doubles at Wimbledon alongside Andy Murray arguing that other players would’ve done the same and she had to put herself first.
The former US Open champion agreed to pair up with Andy Murray for the event in what is his final tournament on the main tour aside from the Olympic Games. After losing in the first round of men’s doubles, attention pointed towards a dream team with two of the best British hopes of recent years.
But Raducanu withdrew citing stiffness in her wrist. An issue she experienced yesterday morning and she also touched upon after losing to Lulu Sun. It isn’t a decision that she regrets either and she stands by it.
“I don’t think it was a mistake because I was feeling fine, then yesterday morning just woke up with stiffness. I have to prioritize myself, my singles and my body,” said Raducanu.
“I think it was the right decision. I stand by the decision. It was a tough decision because it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do.
“Of course, I didn’t want to take his (Murray’s) last match away from him. But at the end of the day, I think a lot of the players in a similar situation would have done the same thing, prioritizing their body.”
She also touched upon the comments made by Judy Murray which made worldwide coverage. But she didn’t see them and said simply people are entitled to their own opinions.
“I think with every decision, people are entitled to their opinions. Of course, there was a bit of a cloud around the decision.” Raducanu admits. “I don’t think I would have done it any other way. I think in this sport especially, as an individual, you have to make your own calls and prioritize yourself. Especially with my (injury) history, I just had to put myself first.”
