Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu and second-seeded Elise Mertens withdrew from the ASB Classic on Tuesday in Auckland, New Zealand.
Raducanu, who is dealing with a balky back, is no stranger to injuries, having dealt with issues involving her wrists, ankles and back over the last few years.
The 22-year-old British player was seeded sixth in the tournament and set to square off against Robin Montgomery in the first round on Tuesday. Montgomery will face lucky loser Mai Hontama of Japan instead.
“Tried my best to be ready,” Raducanu said. “I love Auckland and the fans here, but unfortunately I picked up a back niggle and won’t be ready in time.”
Raducanu won her only WTA Tour title to date at the 2021 U.S. Open.
Mertens, 29, bowed out of the first WTA 250 event of the season due to a right ankle injury.
The Belgian will be replaced by Jodie Burrage of Great Britain, who will face New Zealand wild card Vivian Yang.
–Field Level Media
