Emma Laducanu was thrilled with her straight-sets win in the Australian Open opener on Sunday, but insisted she could “improve a lot more”.
Despite getting off to a slow start against Thailand’s world No. 195 Manachaya Sawankeo, Radukanu won 10 of her final 11 matches and cruised to a 6-4, 6-1 victory.
The 23-year-old was rushed to prepare for the tournament due to injury, but only returned to the court in late December as a result of lingering foot problems since the end of last season.
“I’ve only been playing here for two weeks, but I’m happy with my level and the speed with which I stepped onto the court,” said Raducanu.
“If you keep doing the right things, put in a lot of work, and get good practice, it gives you confidence that you can get better.”
Raducanu came back from a 3-1 deficit in the first set despite facing two break points at 15-40 on his own serve, and credited the cheers of Australian superfans in the stands as the driving force behind his comeback.
“Apparently Down Under. I gave it Rado,” she said of her new nickname. “I’ve never heard of anything like this before. It’s pretty innovative!”
“Of course, I loved the support. I thought it was great for both teams. It was good encouragement to have the support on my side in important moments.”
“He can play in every game. I’ll just try to find him. I hope he comes back.”
Raducanu: I’m at my best when I’m not quiet.
Raducanu admitted he was trying to be a little more vocal on court during the evening session, which started just before 9:45pm local time in Melbourne.
“When you’re playing in the first round, you’re naturally nervous,” Raducanu added.
Emma Radukanu will face Anastasia Potapova in the second round
“This is a close game, a big match, and they’re playing really well. It’s a late night, so I think it was good for me to just stay positive and stay upbeat to keep my energy high and my motivation.”
“I think that’s what helped me. When I’m at my best in the game, I’m not completely quiet.
“It depends on the day. I felt it would be helpful today.”
Britain’s number one faces an even tougher test, with Russian-turned-Austrian Anastasia Potapova next up for grabs, and world number one Aryna Sabalenka likely in the third round.
“I remember Anastasia being the player you always looked at and beat the juniors,” Raducanu said of her next opponent on Wednesday, the world No. 55.
“She was also very highly ranked in the pros. She had a really tough match today, so I think that gave her a lot of confidence.”
“He’s a hard hitter. I know it’s going to be a really difficult match. I just have to gather my strength and prepare as best I can for the next match.”
Sky Sports customers will have access to over 50% more live sport this year at no extra cost, by watching the ATP and WTA Tour, live on Sky Sports, and streaming on the NOW and Sky Sports apps. Click here for more information.
