Tim Henman's backing that Emma Raducanu can reach the second week of the Australian Open suggests value for punters: with a No.28 seed and improving Hobart form, consider wagering on Raducanu to win three matches or reach the Round of 16 in Melbourne — a realistic, potentially profitable underdog play if her fitness holds up.
Henman Backs Raducanu to Reach Second Week of Australian Open
Tim Henman believes Emma Raducanu is on an upward trajectory and could make the second week at Melbourne Park if she strengthens her fitness. Henman highlighted Raducanu’s clear tennis ability and said that, with improved physical resilience, reaching the round of 16 is a realistic target.
Seeded and Playing into Form in Hobart
Raducanu arrives at the Australian Open as the No.28 seed, a position that provides some protection in the early rounds. She began 2026 at the United Cup, withdrawing from an initial match and then losing to Maria Sakkari as Team GB exited the group stage. Raducanu has since progressed in Hobart, defeating Camila Osorio and advancing to the quarter-finals after Magdalena Frech withdrew before their scheduled last-16 meeting. She is scheduled to face Australia’s Taylah Preston as she chases her first title since the 2022 US Open.
Fitness Concerns and Match Readiness
Henman emphasised that Raducanu’s main challenge is physical resilience, noting a lingering foot issue that has limited her match volume. “There’s no question about her tennis ability. So if she builds her fitness, I would like to see her in the second week of the Australian Open,” he said, underlining the need for work in the gym and on-court conditioning.
Coaching Impact and Future Targets
Henman praised Raducanu’s collaboration with coach Francisco Roig, calling his input on practice and match court situations “excellent” and pointing to a productive relationship. He noted Raducanu pushed top players late in the season — holding match points against both Barbora Krejcikova and Jessica Pegula — and suggested that with a few more wins she could realistically finish 2026 inside the world top 20.
Betting Angles and What Punters Should Watch
From a betting perspective, Raducanu’s seeding and improving form in Hobart make her a compelling underdog for bettors targeting the Round of 16 or a “win three matches” market in Melbourne. Key factors to monitor before placing bets: confirmation of her fitness in the days leading up to the Australian Open, her match intensity in Hobart, and any updates about her foot. If fitness reports remain positive, backing her to reach the second week offers value.
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Emma Raducanu will be looking to make the second week of the Australian Open main draw which begins on Sunday
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