Story perspectives

Alcaraz Changes Coaches, Raducanu Critiques Match Scheduling

1/18/2026

Center

Alcaraz Seeks Grand Slam

Carlos Alcaraz, a Spanish tennis player, has parted with Juan Carlos Ferrero and is guided by Samuel Lopez to pursue a career Grand Slam.
He has yet to reach a Melbourne quarterfinal, a hurdle he hopes to overcome.
Emma Raducanu, a British tennis player, faces a late first match due to travel delays and limited practice.
She criticized scheduling that places women's matches after men's, noting the difficulties it creates.

Right

Raducanu Criticizes Scheduling

Emma Raducanu criticized Australian Open organizers for scheduling her first match against Thailand's Mananchaya Sawangkaew late at night, potentially starting after 9 PM.
Raducanu expressed frustration over women's matches being scheduled after men's matches, which can extend to five sets.
She is managing a foot injury that limited her pre-season training.
Carlos Alcaraz aims to complete his career Grand Slam at the tournament, facing Adam Walton in his opening match.
Aryna Sabalenka and Venus Williams are also set to compete on the first day.

History

Historical Context

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) was founded in 1973 to advocate for women's professional tennis, following the 1972 Title IX legislation that mandated gender equality in sports. This movement gained momentum after Billie Jean King's successful boycott of unequal prize money in 1970. Today, Emma Raducanu's critique of match scheduling highlights ongoing gender disparities, underscoring the need for continued progress in achieving equality in tennis.

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Alcaraz Seeks Grand Slam

Carlos Alcaraz, a Spanish tennis player, has parted with Juan Carlos Ferrero and is guided by Samuel Lopez to pursue a career Grand Slam.
He has yet to reach a Melbourne quarterfinal, a hurdle he hopes to overcome.
Emma Raducanu, a British tennis player, faces a late first match due to travel delays and limited practice.
She criticized scheduling that places women's matches after men's, noting the difficulties it creates.

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