‘Such a talent’ – Emma Raducanu battles injury but falls just short at Australian Open

Emma Raducanu problem solved admirably in her second round encounter with Danka Kovinic, but her Australian open was cut short by the Montenegrin in the end.

The 19-year-old suffered blisters on her right hand early in the first set and was forced to manage the situation throughout her match.

While Raducanu was able to push the contest to a third set, Kovinic ultimately overcame the US Open champion 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 to reach the third round of a Slam for the first time on her 18th attempt.

Kovinic particularly enjoyed the atmosphere of the court during the showdown.

“It was amazing, I really enjoyed it through the whole match,” she said in her post-match interview.

“It was a really nice experience to play against Emma here and to make my first third round of a Grand Slam, after many years [of trying].”

When asked what it was like facing the sensation that is Raducanu, Kovinic was full of praise for the young Brit.

“She had an amazing result winning a Grand Slam at such a young age, such a talent.

“I’m glad that I showed I can play at a high level. Hopefully I can continue.”

Raducanu’s blisters forced her to seriously adjust her game, throwing in a slice on the majority of her forehands, an uncommon sight in modern tennis.

Many were commenting on the situation online, including the official WTA Twitter account.

World number 98 Kovinic will likely face two-time Slam champion Simona Halep next, who takes on Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia in her second round tie.

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