• Emma Raducanu started her 2025 Australian Open campaign with a victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova.
• Despite hitting 15 double faults, Raducanu displayed resilience, winning 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-2).
• Her performance raised questions about her serve, attributed to nerves and adjustments following a back injury.
• Raducanu is set to face Amanda Anisimova in the next round, a player who poses a significant challenge.

In a gripping first-round match at the 2025 Australian Open, Emma Raducanu displayed remarkable fortitude by overcoming her serving struggles to secure a victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova with a scoreline of 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-2). Although Raducanu experienced severe issues with her serve, recording a troubling 15 double faults, her determination ensured her advancement in the tournament. The match lasted just over two hours, highlighting her ability to persevere under pressure.

Having had a disrupted pre-season due to back spasms, Raducanu entered the competition somewhat unprepared, which was evident as her serve faltered under the weight of Grand Slam expectations. The British number two remarked, “I think my serve had a mind of its own,” acknowledging the uncharacteristic performance. Despite these difficulties, she effectively utilized her baseline returns and maintained composure during critical moments, particularly in the tie-breaks, where she excelled.

Throughout the match, Raducanu exhibited flashes of her well-practiced skill, especially as she adapted her game plan to counter Alexandrova’s aggressive style. After losing serve multiple times, Raducanu regrouped, noting that maintaining focus despite her serve's failings was paramount. “Maybe when you’re not committing as much on it, it kind of seeps through,” she reflected on how her struggles impacted the rest of her game.

The match was a microcosm of Raducanu’s journey, embodying both her vulnerabilities and strengths as she continues to navigate the challenges of professional tennis. Now, she is set to meet Amanda Anisimova in the second round, where she will need to harness her best form to contend with the American’s caliber.

Emma Raducanu’s gritty performance reinforces her tenacity and sets the stage for what could potentially be a thrilling Australian Open run, as she aims to reclaim her confidence in her service game and go deeper into the tournament.