Tennis star joins Linz lineup in huge boost for tournament after Emma Raducanu withdrew
Several players have withdrawn from the WTA 500 event in Linz, including Emma Raducanu.
The WTA 500 event in Linz took a hit when four players, including Emma Raducanu, withdrew ahead of the tournament. The British No. 1 is still recovering from post-viral symptoms after picking up an illness in February. Two-time Grand Slam champion Barbora Krejcikova also pulled out, as did Emma Navarro and Antonia Ruzic.
But the indoor clay-court tournament has received a huge boost just days before main draw action gets underway, as world No. 10 Mirra Andreeva has taken a last-minute spot in the event. The teenager will be the top seed in Linz, her first outing of the European clay-court swing.
Announcing the news on social media, tournament organisers said: “New No.1 of our tournament: Mirra Andreeva confirmed her participation and will take the court in Linz. We can’t wait to see you, Mirra.”
Although tennis entry lists are confirmed six weeks in advance, Andreeva has been allowed to join the field at the last minute without a wildcard. The world No. 10 is considered a ‘top 30 replacement’ following Navarro’s withdrawal.
The world No. 25 is currently sidelined and missed her home tournament in Charleston, revealing she had been dealing with health problems. “Unfortunately, I have been dealing with some health struggles for the past year or so that I am continuing to sort out,” she said.
“I am working closely with my doctors and team to feel the best I can, but I just need a bit more time in doing so. I feel optimistic that I’ll be back on court soon in the coming weeks.”
Austrian teenager Lilli Tagger has received a wildcard into the main draw in Linz. Tagger reached a new career-high ranking of No. 108 this week after winning matches in Indian Wells and Miami.
Ahead of the WTA 500 event, the 18-year-old said: “I feel pretty comfortable on clay and playing in front of a home crowd is always something special. There's really nothing better. As a preparation tournament for Roland Garros, it's just right. I'm really looking forward to it and can hardly wait.”
Other wildcards are expected to be announced on Sunday, and the draw will be made that morning. Reigning champion Ekaterina Alexandrova will return to defend her title, while Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra Eala is also set to compete.
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