Maria Sakkari defeated Emma Raducanu on Monday afternoon, securing Greece the top spot in their United Cup group. Sakkari, who had failed to defeat Raducanu in four previous meetings, defeated the former US Open champion 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 in Perth, Australia.

Emma Raducanu's return to tennis has been delayed after the Briton pulled out of her tie against Japan's Naomi Osaka at the United Cup mixed team event in Perth on Sunday. Raducanu has struggled with form and fitness problems since her U.

Maria Sakkari defeated Emma Raducanu 3–6, 6–3, 6–1 at Perth's RAC Arena, clinching a 2–0 win for Greece over Great Britain and sealing the national team's place in the quarterfinals of the United Cup as Group 5 winners.

Greece secured its quarterfinal spot following three-set wins by Stefanos Tsistipas and Maria Sakkari to clinch the against Great Britian. Sakkari earned her first win over Raducanu in her career, and is 2-0 in singles to start the season.

Follow Emma Raducanus 2026 tennis schedule, latest results and current ranking; Raducanu returns to action at start of 2026 in United Cup; Watch United Cup live on Sky Sports; Watch ATP and WTA Tours in 2026 live on Sky Sports Tennis,

When considering all these factors, Raducanu has an excellent opportunity to win her first WTA Tour title in over four years. However, there is another former Grand Slam champion in the draw who could cause Raducanu issues if were they to play each other.

Emma Raducanu's recent illness has forced her to end the season early, but she is already focused on preparing for the 2026 campaign.