Emma Raducanu fell 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) to world No. 94 Diane Parry in the first round of the WTA 500 Strasbourg Open on May 18 or 19, marking her first match since early March 2026 [1, 2]. Raducanu had been sidelined for more than two months by a post-viral illness after her last competitive appearance against Amanda Anisimova at Indian Wells [1, 2].
She entered the Strasbourg event on a wildcard and played under the guidance of coach Andrew Richardson, newly rehired after coaching her to the 2021 US Open title [1, 2]. Despite slipping in the WTA rankings from 23rd to 37th during her absence, Raducanu showed determination, saving 16 break points and pushing the second set to a tiebreak [1, 2]. However, her chances were undermined by double faults and inconsistent serving over a match lasting 2 hours and 26 minutes [1].
Diane Parry will now face either Shuai Zhang or Cristina Bucsa in the tournament's next round [1]. The Guardian noted that “There will be no instant, magic resolution this time,” emphasizing the challenge Raducanu faces in regaining form and consistency with Richardson amid ongoing competition and training [2].
