In a spirited performance, Emma Raducanu rallied from an initial struggle to defeat Mananchaya Sawangkaew, ranked 196th in the world, in the first round of the Australian Open. Raducanu staged a remarkable comeback, winning seven consecutive games to secure a 6-4, 6-1 victory and maintain her flawless record in the opening round at Melbourne.
Expressing her joy after the match, Raducanu acknowledged Sawangkaew’s strong play, praising her opponent’s skill and aggressive style that exceeded her ranking expectations.
The 28th seed started aggressively, claiming the opening service game despite facing tough returns from Sawangkaew. However, Raducanu faced a challenging moment in the third game when her serve was tested, leading to an early break for Sawangkaew.
Sawangkaew’s relentless performance kept Raducanu under pressure, but the British player showcased determination, saving crucial break points to stay in the match. Raducanu then shifted gears, securing a break to level the set before dominating the remainder of the match.
With renewed focus and powerful shots, Raducanu controlled the game, eventually seizing the victory with a confident display. Her exceptional performance led to a 5-1 lead in the second set, culminating in a decisive win after just one hour and 11 minutes of play on Margaret Court Arena.
Raducanu’s relentless play and composure throughout the match highlighted her prowess on the court, earning her a well-deserved place in the second round. She credited her late-night practice session for her success and expressed gratitude to her enthusiastic Australian supporter, inviting them to future matches.
As the 2026 Australian Open unfolds, fans can catch all the live action from Melbourne on TNT Sports via Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel.
