Emma Raducanu’s campaign at the Australian Open began with a victory as she earned her place in the second round.
The British number one dropped just five games as she raced to a straight-sets victory against Mananchaya Sawangkaew.
Raducanu will play Anastasia Potapova next in a first-time match, with the winner likely getting the opportunity to play Aryna Sabalenka in the third round.
The 23-year-old proved to be a major hit with the Australian Open crowd and she received the new nickname of ‘Radu’ from lively fans.
Emma Raducanu reacts to her new nickname
Raducanu was the overwhelming favourite in her tie with Sawangkaew, and fans were delighted that she picked up the win.
Throughout, there were chants of Radu, with one particular audience member earning ‘number one fan’ status from Raducanu after the match.
Speaking at her press conference, the British star shared her reaction to her new-found popularity in Melbourne.
“Yeah, apparently Down Under I’ve got Radu. Never heard that before. Pretty original. Obviously, I loved the support. I thought it was great on both sides,” she said.
“To have that on my side, really, in the big moments, it was a good spur of encouragement. I said, of course, he can come to any match. I just need to try to locate him. Yeah, I hope he comes back.”
Raducanu has never progressed as far as the third round of the Australian Open, with her best effort coming last year.
Emma Raducanu is now looking forward to a break
Raducanu was unhappy about her scheduling on the first day of the Australian Open, which saw her play around midnight on Rod Laver Arena.
The British star is delighted that she will now not have to play until Wednesday, 21 January, with the order of play yet to be confirmed.
“Yeah, I’m really happy to have two days, especially playing so late. ‘Cause tonight to wind down after a late match, that’s one side that maybe the viewers and spectators don’t understand.
“By the time we finish with our routines afterward, cool down, the adrenaline is so high, to switch off is very difficult.
“I’m really excited to have two days off. Given the quick turnaround from Hobart, I think my body will appreciate it.”
Raducanu is recovering from a foot injury she suffered during her off-season, which has hampered her ability to train with new coach Francisco Roig.
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