Emma Raducanu opened the 2026 Australian Open with a convincing 6‑4, 6‑1 win over Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew, world No 195, on Margaret Court Arena. Arriving in Melbourne after a Hobart International quarter‑final run, the British No 1 stumbled early but seized ten of the next eleven games to seal the match in straight sets today.

Raducanu’s victory marked her second tour win since September and restored confidence after a foot injury limited her United Cup preparation. British captain Anne Keothavong admitted early nerves, but praised Raducanu’s surge after trailing 1‑3, 15‑40. The win positions her for a second‑round clash with Anastasia Potapova in Melbourne next day ahead.

Looking ahead, a potential third‑round meeting with world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka looms, while fellow British players Cameron Norrie and qualifier Arthur Fery also advanced. Analysts will watch whether Raducanu can translate early form into deeper runs, a crucial step toward reclaiming her 2021 US Open momentum in the 2026 season for success.