Emma Raducanu has spoken out after being selected to represent Great Britain at the upcoming United Cup in January next year. The British tennis star, who previously triumphed at the US Open, will team up with Jack Draper for the mixed-gender event.
Both players had to end their seasons prematurely, with Raducanu withdrawing due to health issues and Draper facing an arm injury. This will mark their debut at the United Cup, as Raducanu opted out of the Billie Jean King Cup to focus on individual tournaments in Asia.
Expressing her excitement about the opportunity to play for Team GB alongside Draper, Raducanu mentioned that she is looking forward to the new competition format and the chance to spend extra time in Australia.
Draper also shared his enthusiasm for returning to competition at the United Cup and expressed interest in the tournament’s location, hoping to play in either Perth or Sydney, cities he has yet to compete in.
Raducanu faced challenges during the Asian swing post-US Open, including early exits from tournaments and health concerns that led to her withdrawal from competitions. Draper, on the other hand, dealt with an arm injury after Wimbledon but is gearing up for his return at the UTS London exhibition event.
The duo is scheduled to kick off their 2026 seasons at the United Cup before shifting focus to the Australian Open, following exhibition matches and recovery from their respective setbacks.
