This study presents a detailed numerical investigation into the fracture behavior of bone cement (PMMA) under uniaxial tensile loading, employing two advanced simulation methodologies: the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) and a progressive damage model implemented via the USDFLD user subroutine in Abaqus. Both modelling approaches were rigorously calibrated and validated against experimental tensile tests conducted on standardized PMMA specimens. The analysis primarily focused on predicting crack initiation, propagation pathways, and the material’s overall stress–strain response. The findings demonstrate that XFEM delivers superior accuracy in predicting crack initiation sites and propagation directions, largely independent of mesh orientation, making it particularly effective for simulating discrete fracture events. Conversely, the progressive damage model offers a continuous depiction of material degradation, though it necessitates mesh sensitivity analysis and meticulous parameter calibration to ensure accuracy. Through this comparative analysis, the study elucidates the respective advantages and limitations of each modelling technique and underscores their potential in simulating fracture behavior in orthopedic cement applications. The outcomes contribute to the advancement of reliable computational tools for evaluating the mechanical integrity of cemented prostheses and inform the design optimization of future implant systems.