Emma Raducanu’s recent match in Ningbo, China, against Zhu Lin was a stark reminder of the relentless physical and mental demands professional tennis exacts, even on the most promising stars. Facing a determined Chinese wildcard, Raducanu fought valiantly but ultimately lost in three sets. Yet it wasn’t just the defeat itself that concerned many observers—it was her apparent struggle with her physical health during the match.

At one point, Raducanu’s blood pressure was checked, and she required treatment for her back, which visibly hampered her movement and service motion as the encounter progressed. The effects of this physical discomfort were evident, casting a shadow over her usual fluidity and confidence on the court. This performance must be viewed in the context of the grueling schedule Raducanu has endured this year, having played 50 matches on the WTA Tour—her busiest season since her sensational breakthrough at the 2021 US Open.

Raducanu’s rise to prominence was meteoric and historic. At just 18 years old, she stunned the tennis world by winning the 2021 US Open as a qualifier, the first ever to do so. Her powerful baseline game combined with immaculate court coverage captivated fans globally. But since that fairy-tale Grand Slam victory, maintaining consistency has proven challenging. Injuries, illnesses, and the sheer pressure of expectation have all played a part in her struggles.

Notably, Raducanu recently was forced to retire from a match citing illness, an episode that highlighted the toll the tour can take on elite athletes’ bodies. Tennis is a sport that relentlessly tests stamina and resilience, with little room for physical vulnerability. Compounding this is the mental strain that comes with juggling intense public scrutiny and personal ambition. For Raducanu, who burst into the spotlight as a teenage sensation, navigating this landscape is a formidable task.

However, her career is far from derailed. Despite recent setbacks, Raducanu’s talent and determination remain unquestionable. She is poised to compete in two remaining tournaments this season—the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo and the Hong Kong Open—both opportunities for her to regain form and re-establish confidence. In tennis, as the saying goes, “you can’t win if you don’t start,” and Raducanu’s journey is very much about persistence and continual growth.

To understand Raducanu’s potential for comeback, it helps to reflect on the histories of other greats who faced early challenges in their careers. For instance, Billie Jean King, a pioneering figure in women’s tennis, encountered numerous obstacles before becoming a champion and advocate. King famously remarked that champions are forged by desire, dreams, and vision—qualities Raducanu has already demonstrated in abundance. Similarly, players like Serena Williams faced injuries and disappointments but consistently used setbacks as springboards for further success.

Historically, tennis has offered countless examples of resilience, where mental toughness often eclipses physical prowess. Legendary coach Nick Bollettieri emphasized this dynamic, famously saying the game is “90% mental and 10% physical.” This balance is vital to understanding Raducanu’s story. Despite current challenges, her ability to stay mentally strong and motivated is a promising sign for her future.

Raducanu’s difficulties with health are not unique in tennis, where players frequently contend with injury and exhaustion. The sport’s evolution over the decades—towards more demanding, power-oriented matches and longer seasons—exacts a heavier physical toll than ever before. Players like Venus Williams and Rafael Nadal have spoken at length about managing these demands. In that light, Raducanu’s experiences reflect a broader reality of professional tennis, underscoring the importance of managing both physical and mental health proactively.

Far from signaling a decline, Raducanu’s recent struggles may serve as valuable lessons. Tennis history shows that setbacks often precede breakthroughs. The sport’s greatest champions are defined not merely by their victories but by their comebacks. Raducanu’s spirited fighting and commitment to improvement rank her as a player who embodies these qualities.

As she continues her journey, the tennis world will be watching. There is a compelling narrative of resilience at play—a young athlete balancing immense promise with the trials of elite competition. Raducanu’s story resonates because it reflects a universal truth about sport and life: progress is never linear, and true strength lies in perseverance.

In the years ahead, the hope is that Raducanu will channel these experiences into renewed success. With her talent, work ethic, and support system, there is every reason to believe she will remain a formidable presence on the WTA Tour. After all, tennis has always been a stage where dreams are tested and champions are made, often under the harshest of circumstances. Emma Raducanu’s journey is only beginning, and many chapters remain unwritten.