Tennis star Emma Raducanu is set to miss the French Open and Wimbledon after requiring surgery for hand and ankle issues.

The 20-year-old from Orpington announced the news via her social media earlier today as she begins her recovery from the injuries.

Raducanu rose to fame when she won the US Open in 2021 – making her the first British woman to win a grand slam since Virginia Wade, who also has roots in Kent.

“It is safe to say the last 10 months have been difficult as I dealt with a recurring injury on a bone of both my hands,” began the statement from Raducanu to her Instagram followers.

“I’m having a minor procedure done on both hands to resolve the issues. I’m disappointed to share that I will be out for the next few months.

“While I am at it, I will have another minor procedure that is due on my ankle.

“It pains me that I will miss the summer events and I tried to downplay the issues so I thank all my fans who continued to support me when you did not know the facts.”

Her hand injuries - involving a bone very close to the wrist - ground her season to an early halt last year and have continued to flare up at various points this year.

She was forced to withdraw from the Madrid Open just hours before her opening match last week as a result of the injuries.

Fans have been quick to wish the Toronto-born athlete who grew up in Kent well, with one tweeting: “Get well soon Emma! Health comes first and I'm sure you will be back stronger than ever.”

The official Wimbledon Twitter account also sent a message saying “We'll miss you this year, Emma - rest up and come back stronger”.

Wimbledon starts on July 3 and will run for two weeks, with the women’s final set to be played on July 15 and the men’s final to be contested on July 16.

It is not yet known how long Emma will be out for.

She was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire after her US Open victory, in which she was the first qualifier of any nationality to do so.

The victory over Canadian – and fellow teenager – Leylah Fernandez 6-4 6-3 at Flushing Meadows came when she was 18.