Former tennis pro Andy Roddick advises Emma Raducanu to skip an upcoming practice tournament for a more focused training period.
Raducanu took time off due to wrist and ankle surgeries since April, returning to practice in August at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton.
Raducanu decided against participating in an exhibition event in Macau to extend her training phase.
Roddick believes a continuous training block might benefit Raducanu more than participating in an exhibition event.
Raducanu is expected to return to competitive play before the Australian Open, but her pre-season tournaments remain undecided.
Roddick emphasizes the importance of match practice before a major tournament like the Australian Open.
Raducanu has options like the United Cup, Brisbane International, and Auckland Classic in January before the Australian Open.
Raducanu had a difficult experience at the Auckland Classic earlier due to slippery courts and an ankle injury.
Tournament directors express openness to Raducanu's return but acknowledge uncertainties about her schedule.
While some tournaments precede the Australian Open, many top players tend to skip these events in favor of training.