Emma Raducanu is set to face Coco Gauff in a highly anticipated matchup at the Italian Open in Rome. This marks Raducanu’s first tournament since March, as she returns to competitive play on clay after a prolonged absence due to illness and injury.
Raducanu’s Path in the Italian Open
Raducanu has been given a bye into the second round, where she will compete against either Solana Sierra of Argentina or a qualifier. She is currently ranked No. 30 in the world and is looking to regain her competitive edge after missing the Mutua Madrid Open due to a right-hand injury.
Projected Matchups
- Round 1: BYE
- Round 2: Solana Sierra or a qualifier
- Round 3: Coco Gauff
- Quarter-Finals: Mirra Andreeva, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, or Elise Mertens
- Semi-Finals: Aryna Sabalenka, Amanda Anisimova, Belinda Bencic, or Linda Noskova
- Final: Iga Swiatek, Elina Svitolina, or Jessica Pegula
Raducanu’s potential matchup against the reigning French Open champion, Coco Gauff, in the third round is particularly notable. Last year, Raducanu made it to the fourth round in Rome before being eliminated by Gauff.
Training and Coaching Updates
In preparation for the Italian Open, Raducanu has been training at the Ferrer Tennis Academy in Spain. She is currently working with her childhood coach, Jane O’Donoghue. Previously, Andrew Richardson, who guided her during her US Open triumph, assisted her during training last week.
Since parting ways with coach Francisco Roig, Raducanu’s training has primarily involved her hitting partner, Alexis Canter. She recently reunited with coach Mark Petchey at Indian Wells but appears to be focusing on long-term development with O’Donoghue.
Current Standings of British Players
As of May 4, 2026, Emma Raducanu leads the British WTA rankings, followed by:
- 2. Sonay Kartal – No. 56
- 3. Katie Boulter – No. 60
- 4. Fran Jones – No. 101
- 5. Harriet Dart – No. 174
For the men’s rankings, British players are as follows:
- 1. Cam Norrie – No. 19
- 2. Jack Draper – No. 50
- 3. Jan Choinski – No. 122
- 4. Jacob Fearnley – No. 123
- 5. Jack Pinnington Jones – No. 137
Event Schedule
The Italian Open 2026 will commence on May 5 for the women’s draw, with the men’s event starting on May 6. The tournament is scheduled to culminate with finals on May 16 and 17. Day sessions will begin at 10 AM, and evening sessions will start at 6 PM, providing ample opportunities for fans to watch exciting matches.
Stay updated on the tournament by following live coverage on El-Balad.
