Musa
Emma Raducanu’s wild ride in Rome may have ended early, but the online firestorm is just heating up. After her straight-sets loss to a lower-ranked opponent, critics and fans alike took to social media with a simple — but brutal — question: Why is she even playing right now?
The match was lacklustre by Raducanu standards: double faults, low energy, and a body language that screamed get me out of here. Commentators noted she seemed disengaged and uncertain from the jump, barely fighting for points that used to be hers for the taking.
And the backlash was swift.
“She’s not ready mentally or physically. This is just damage control disguised as a comeback,” tweeted one fan. Another went further: “She should be on the practice court, not the main stage. This is sad to watch.”
But not everyone agrees. Raducanu’s loyal fans came swinging with receipts, reminding the world she’s still only 22 and coming off multiple surgeries. “Let her find her rhythm. Every match is part of the rebuild,” one defender posted. Another added, “She earned her spot — don’t forget who won the U.S. Open without dropping a set.”
Still, the Rome performance has reignited debate about whether her team is pushing her too hard, too soon. Is this just early rust, or a deeper issue with confidence, conditioning — or both?
One thing’s clear: Emma Raducanu remains the most talked-about enigma in tennis. And whether she’s winning or losing, everyone has something to say.
Musa
Olaniyi Ayoola
