Emma Raducanu — once the teenage sensation who lit up Flushing Meadows with her US Open win — is now making headlines not just for her tennis results, but for a bold new career strategy that could reshape her future on tour. After an injury-free breakthrough season in 2025, the British star revealed she’s planning to play fewer tournaments in 2026 — all in the name of longevity and long-term health. Tennisuptodate.com
In a candid interview discussing her plans for the year ahead, Raducanu said something that immediately grabbed attention: “I hope to play less than I did this year.” This comes after a season in which she finally stayed healthy, climbed back into the top 30, and maintained consistent form — something she struggled with in past years due to injuries and interruptions. Tennisuptodate.com
That’s right: the 23-year-old, who’s still among the brightest British stars in tennis, doesn’t want to overload her schedule in 2026. Instead, she plans to carefully choose her events, ensuring her body stays strong and that she’s fresh for the biggest challenges, including the Grand Slams. Tennisuptodate.com
Raducanu’s decision highlights a shift in mindset that many pro athletes face as they balance peak performance with physical durability. In previous seasons, she played a hectic calendar — navigating injuries, coaching changes, and fitness challenges. But in 2025, she managed to compete in ten WTA 1000 events, enter 11 main draws and finish with her highest match win total in a year. Tennisuptodate.com
Part of the reason for this new approach is how much effort Raducanu has had to put into her fitness routine. She explained she wants to blend conditioning into her warm-ups — “little and often” — so that her body stays resilient throughout the year, rather than cramming intense workouts around a packed schedule. Tennisuptodate.com
This shift to prioritizing well-being over quantity isn’t just smart; it’s becoming a modern tennis trend. With the sport’s demanding schedule and physical toll, many players are now choosing quality over sheer quantity of events — and Raducanu is publicly embracing that philosophy. Tennis365
Another factor in her planning: family time. For the first time in years, she’ll be home in the UK for Christmas — something she’s excited about and says she’s “very grateful for.” This break is important for her mental reset before a fresh run in 2026. Tennis365
While fans may be surprised that Raducanu wants to play fewer tournaments, her comments show a thoughtful athlete who’s no longer just chasing wins — she’s thinking about sustaining a long, healthy career. If this plan works, we could see the British No. 1 evolve into one of the most consistent and resilient players on tour, able to peak at the biggest moments without burning out.
Raducanu’s strategy is a message to young players everywhere: success isn’t just about playing more — it’s about playing smart. And if she follows through, 2026 could be her strongest, healthiest and most successful season yet.
