Emma Raducanu has accepted a late wildcard entry to compete in next week’s Qatar Open in Doha as she seeks to end her current run of defeats.
The British No 2, currently ranked 56th in the world, will look to bounce back after suffering two consecutive first-round exits.
The 22-year-old’s most recent losses came in Singapore and Abu Dhabi, following her Australian Open defeat to Iga Swiatek in the third round.
Raducanu has opted to remain in the Middle East for the WTA 1000 event while she continues to evaluate her coaching options.
Emma Raducanu is going to compete at the Qatar Open next week
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Raducanu recently parted ways with coach Nick Cavaday following her exit from the Australian Open, with her childhood coach stepping away due to health issues.
She is currently working with a temporary support team, including fitness trainer Yutaka Nakamura.
The former US Open champion has also brought in Dubai-based Roman Kelecic, who previously worked with her earlier in her career, to assist during her recent tournament in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking to The National, Raducanu emphasised her careful approach to selecting her next coach.
“It’s a decision that I want to take my time with,” she said.
Emma Raducanu is looking to build up some momentum
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“I think that’s why I haven’t necessarily jumped into something straight away, because I want to make sure it’s a right fit.”
She added: “I think this period where I don’t necessarily have someone is going to tell me a lot.
“It’s going to teach me a lot, what I want, what I don’t want to look for in the next person.”
The British player remains undecided on her next steps. “I’m not too sure yet right now. I haven’t come to any plans or decisions,” she explained.
Whoever Raducanu chooses as her next permanent coach will be her seventh appointment since turning professional in 2021.
The Qatar Open field will be headlined by world No 2 Swiatek, who dropped just one game in her win over Raducanu at the Australian Open.
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Swiatek enters the tournament as the clear favourite, seeking her fourth consecutive title in Doha.
As a WTA Tour 1000 event, Raducanu has a good opportunity to pick up some valuable ranking points with a deep run in the competition.
She was knocked out in the first round last year, meaning she won’t be defending any points.