Emma Laducanu’s preparations for the Australian Open took a hit after she lost 6-2, 6-4 to Tayla Preston in the quarter-finals of the Hobart International Tournament.
After Thursday’s draw, Raducanu knew she could face world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the third round of this year’s Grand Slam opener, but she lacked firepower as Australia’s Preston put in an inspiring performance in her home country.
This is the second time Raducanu has lost to a player ranked outside the top 200, while Preston was ranked 204th in the WTA rankings before this tournament.
Preston, 20, said: “I don’t know what to say! I’m really happy to get to the next round and play in front of everyone.”
Laducanu got off to a strong start by breaking Preston in the first game, but the Australian quickly broke back and then held serve before an hour-long stoppage due to rain.
After the restart, Preston completely dominated Raducanu, quickly taking a 4-1 lead with the next break, and a third break to take the first set.
Raducanu’s confidence is wavering ahead of the Australian Open, which begins on Sunday morning
Raducanu started to fight back with a break early in the second set and turned up the intensity, but Preston found the line with another great ball strike and broke back to make it 3-3.
The British number one missed another break advantage in the eighth game at 4-4, but Preston broke again to record the biggest win of his career and continue his dream week in Hobart.
