The Australian Open 2026 has kicked off with a massive boost for British fans as both their top stars moved into the second round. It was a day of high drama and elite Tennis at Melbourne Park.
For our readers in the UAE following the Australian Open Tennis action, Sunday provided a mix of clinical performance and grit. While Emma Raducanu showed her class in a straight-sets win, Cam Norrie had to fight through a marathon five-set match to stay alive in the Australian Open 2026.
ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic May Retire After 2026 Australian Open, Says Former Star Rennae Stubbs
The End of Drama? Babar Azam’s Heartwarming Gesture to Steve Smith Shocks BBL Fans (WATCH VIDEO)
Raducanu’s Brave Comeback at Melbourne Park
Raducanu story on day one was almost a disaster. Within the first sixteen minutes, she was trailing 1-3 and facing a double break point. Her opponent, Sawangkaew from Thailand, was playing incredible Perfomence on her Grand Slam debut.
However, Raducanu stayed calm and relied on her experience. She eventually took control of the baseline and beat Sawangkaew 6-4, 6-1. For those following Australian Open Tennis, this was a strong signal that Raducanu is finding her rhythm again despite a difficult off-season.
Cam Norrie Survives a Five-Set Thriller
If Raducanu’s match was a sprint, the Cam Norrie match was a marathon. Competing on the same day, Norrie faced Benjamin Bonzi in a brutal contest. This was Tennis at its most physical, lasting nearly four hours.
Norrie showed incredible resilience after being down two sets to one. He eventually won 6-0, 6-7, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. This victory ensures that the top British Tennis players remain a threat in the Australian Open Tennis bracket.
The Challenge Posed by Sawangkaew
It is important to credit the performance of Thai star. Although her ranking is 196, her performance in the first set of the Australian Open was top-tier. She used a heavy topspin forehand to put Raducanu under immense pressure.
Raducanu noted after the match that Sawangkaew hit returns that constantly landed on the baseline. However, once the British star adjusted her serve and forehand, Sawangkaew struggled to keep up with the pace. This match was a highlight of the opening round of Australian Open.
Key Highlights of the British Success
- Emma Raducanu: Beat Sawangkaew 6-4, 6-1 after a slow start.
- Cam Norrie: Won a 5-set thriller against Bonzi, lasting nearly 4 hours.
- Scheduling Issues: Raducanu practiced at 9:15 PM due to late travel, showing great adaptability.
- Future Matchup: Raducanu will now face Anastasia Potapova in the next round.
- British Momentum: Arthur Fery also won, making it a perfect day for UK players in the Australian Open 2026.
ALSO READ: Nacho Elvira Wins Dubai Invitational; Full Prize Money Breakdown
End of the Wait: Indian Super League 2026 Officially Confirmed with 14 Teams
Sabalenka and Federer Graces the Court
World number one Aryna Sabalenka started her Australian Open title defense with a comfortable 6-4, 6-1 win. Interestingly, the legendary Roger Federer was seen in the stands watching the elite Tennis stars.
Sabalenka told the media she has been working hard on her serve and volley. This kind of tactical evolution is what makes the Australian Open 2026 so exciting to watch. For fans in Dubai and the UAE, the action is just heating up as we move toward the second round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How did Emma Raducanu perform in her first match? In the Australian Open 2026, Raducanu recovered from a 1-3 deficit in the first set to beat Sawangkaew 6-4, 6-1.
Who did Cam Norrie play at the Australian Open? Cam Norrie played against Benjamin Bonzi, winning a difficult five-set match to progress in the Australian Open.
Is Roger Federer at the Australian Open 2026? Yes, Federer was spotted in the stands at Melbourne Park watching Sabalenka and other Tennis stars compete.
What is the next match for Emma Raducanu? Following her win over Sawangkaew, Raducanu will face Anastasia Potapova in the second round of the Australian Open 2026.
ALSO READ: Will Klopp Finally Say Yes? Inside Real Madrid’s Plan to Replace Xabi Alonso
