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ASB Classic tournament director Nicolas Lamperin admits that the withdrawal of Emma Raducanu is a big blow for the event – but such things are part of the sport.

The British star, who is one of the most marketable names in tennis, informed Lamperin at 10am yesterday that she would be unable to participate because of an ongoing back niggle.

Raducanu, who was due to play in the first match of yesterday’s evening session, was a major drawcard for the tournament, with a massive spike in ticket sales when she was announced last year. The 22-year-old attracted big crowds at the 2024 event, with her second match clash with Elina Svitolina one of the best of that week.

Lamperin was philosophical about the setback.

”Emma is a massive name - she’s a marquee player,” said Lamperin. “We love to have her here. Our fans love her too. We are disappointed but we understand the circumstances and can only wish her well.”

Lamperin didn’t know if Raducanu would be fit enough for the Australian Open, which starts next Sunday.

“She’ll probably head to Melbourne as soon as possible. She’s got plenty of time left. I would hope for her that she’s able to compete there but she obviously hasn’t been able to train properly ahead of the new season.”

Raducanu’s withdrawal wasn’t a complete surprise. The world No 56 told media on Sunday that she was managing a recent niggle – without being specific - and had also flagged the issue to organisers ahead of arriving here on December 24.

”She did inform us,” said Lamperin. “She wanted to get as much time as possible to get ready because she was experiencing some [back] pain, which is why we agreed to give her a Tuesday start.”

Emma Raducanu (GBR) during a practice session at Manuka Doctor Arena, Auckland, New Zealand ahead of the 2024-25 Women’s ASB Classic WTA250 tennis tournament. Photo / Photosport

Aside from one cancelled session, the 2021 US Open champion has trained every day here, including Christmas Day, as well as completing rehabilitation sessions. But ultimately it wasn’t enough, continuing an unfortunate pattern across her career, with three surgeries in 2023 and other physical problems last season.

”It is a setback for her for sure, because it’s a new season and you want to start strong and get as many matches as possible,” said Lamperin. “At the same time, she’s been there before so she knows how to deal with the situation. I’m sure she’ll bounce back really soon.”

Belgian second seed Elise Mertens was another casualty yesterday, pulling out with an unspecified injury.

”I’ve been told she got injured in practice a few days ago and that she was doubtful, but I don’t know the reason,” explained Lamperin.

Off the back of Kiwi Lulu Sun’s first-round demise, it’s been an unfortunate 24 hours for the tournament.

”It’s an individual sport - when you’re not 100% you can’t rely on your team mate,” said Lamperin. “You’re on your own on the court, and that’s just the reality.

Raducanu and Mertens were replaced in the draw by Mai Hontama (Japan) and Jodie Burrage (Great Britain), who were the highest ranked “lucky losers” from qualifying who were still in Auckland.