Emma Raducanu has defended her decision to play in the Korea Open instead of representing Great Britain at the Billie Jean King Cup finals, a choice that drew heavy criticism.
The 2021 US Open winner explained that she needed to prioritize time with her new coach, Francisco Roig, to prepare for the Asian swing.
“It was a truly difficult decision,” Raducanu stated, emphasizing her love for the BJK Cup. However, she felt it was “more important to work with an experienced coach” and “further develop myself.”
The decision appears to be paying off, as Raducanu won her opening match at the Korea Open against Jaqueline Cristian, a victory she called a “relief.”
She will face Barbora Krejcikova in the next round.
