Controversial whispers claim Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper are to be captained by a former Grand Slam semifinalist at the United Cup, causing unexpected team critics and suspicion as report has it that…
Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper will be captained by Tim Henman at the United Cup.
In late October, it was announced that Great Britain would have its top male and female players at the 2026 United Cup.
In the previous years, Raducanu picked Auckland as her destination to start the season. But for 2026, the 23-year-old decided to make a change as she is set to compete at the Australian team event for the first time in her career.
Draper, the reigning Indian Wells Masters champion, is also set to debut at the team event scheduled to take place between January 02-11.
Now, it has also been revealed that former six-time Grand Slam semifinalist Henman will captain the British team.
What Raducanu said when confirming her United Cup debut?
After the news dropped in October, the 2021 US Open champion claimed she was “honored” and looking forward to debuting at the event that launched in 2022.
“I’m honored to be able to make my United Cup debut in January. Being able to play for Team GB with my team-mates is a unique opportunity and week to enjoy. It’s great to be able to experience a new format on the tour, represent my country and spend a couple extra weeks in Australia,” the 23-year-old said in September when her participation was confirmed.
With Raducanu and Draper on board, Great Britain is set to have a pretty solid team.
“To see British [number ones] in Jack and Emma line up for the first time will bring new star power to the tournament,” tournament director Stephen Farrow said.
United Cup teams usually feature three to five players, so Great Britain is expected to announce more participants in the upcoming period.
It will be interesting to see if Raducanu and Draper get a chance to play mixed doubles together for the first time in early 2026.
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Why Lewis Hamilton wants Serena Williams compete again – A bond of legends
Lewis Hamilton has always celebrated Serena Williams as one of the sport’s greatest champions. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion’s admiration has taken on renewed significance of Serena’s recent ITIA story.
Hamilton would love to see the 23-time Major champion compete again at 44. Their friendship stretches far beyond the glare of competition and bright lights, with the two legends creating a special bond over the years.
Williams has been supporting Hamilton throughout his career, watching his races whenever possible. On the other hand, Lewis often speaks of his great friend with a warmth that goes deeper than mutual respect between sporting icons.
For Hamilton, Williams is more than a legend whose achievements tower over tennis. Serena is a dear friend whose resilience and character have inspired him for years, with their prime years often creating a blend of Major and Formula 1 crowns.
Lewis continues to encourage Serena to return to the sport she once ruled, seeing no tarnish in the noise surrounding her. The seven-time Formula 1 champion still feels the American’s aura, calling it irreplaceable of the world stage.
Williams’ name has stolen the headlines recently following her appearance on the drug-testing pool. However, the 23-time Major champion rejects any claims of her possible comeback, remaining committed to her family and business outside tennis.
Hamilton showed his loyalty once again with his recent comments about his great friend. As many times before, true champions rise above the headlines with unwavering support, with their bond built to withstand anything.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 US Open. While never officially ending her career, the 44-year-old does not consider another push, at least for now, because you know with Serena.
“I keep telling Serena to come back. I’m a huge fan of hers. She is the greatest of all time, a true legend. She was at one of the races recently. She is also a very dear friend, which is a great honor for me,” Lewis Hamilton said.
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