Emma Raducanu has spoken out following her selection to represent Great Britain at the upcoming United Cup in January. The former US Open champion will team up with Jack Draper for the mixed-gender competition.
Both players had to end their seasons prematurely, with Raducanu withdrawing due to medical reasons and Draper dealing with an arm injury. This will mark their debut in the United Cup, as Raducanu opted out of the Billie Jean King Cup to focus on individual tournaments in Asia.
Expressing her excitement to play for Team GB alongside Draper, Raducanu mentioned her honor in making her United Cup debut. She looks forward to the unique experience of the tournament format and spending extra time in Australia.
Draper also expressed his anticipation to return to competitive play at the United Cup, eagerly awaiting the draw to see if the team will compete in Perth or Sydney. He mentioned his excitement to compete in a new city in Australia.
After struggling in the Asian swing post-US Open, Raducanu faced health issues and decided to withdraw from her remaining tournaments in 2025. She now has ample time to recover before the United Cup commences on January 2.
Meanwhile, Draper was sidelined due to an arm injury after Wimbledon, making a comeback at the US Open but withdrawing due to an arm issue. He is set to return at the UTS London exhibition event, while Raducanu will have an exhibition match against Amanda Anisimova in Miami.
The duo will kick off their 2026 seasons at the United Cup before aiming for the Australian Open.