Emma Raducanu vs Wang Yafan – Australian Open RECAP: Britain’s last woman is OUT as she goes 6-4 down in the third and final set after requiring medical attention

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This was Mail Sport’s live blog for the latest scores and updates from day five of the Australian Open with Emma Raducanu in action.

Disastrous day for the Brits

Well, on a day that started with so much optimism when this blog commenced almost 10 hours ago, it ends in crushing disappointment from a British tennis perspective.

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Emma Raducanu has revealed she threw up following her second round loss at the Australian Open after suddenly becoming unwell in the deciding set of her clash with China’s Wang Yafan.

After dropping the opening set 6-4, Raducanu responded to take the second by the same scoreline, but needed her blood pressure checked in the closing stages of the match after retching on multiple occasions and complaining of breathing difficulties.

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Medvedev remains all over the shop

Medvedev, so often the controller of match tempo – good and bad – is playing an awfully error-strewn game today.

As in the first set, he breaks Medvedev in snappy, efficient style, and then holds to force the Russian to bide his time to get points on the board.

Back on serve, Ruusuvuori holds again, 3-1.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Russia's Daniil Medvedev reacts during his second round match against Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez

More on those upsets

Lowest ever after the seed-slaying. Could it be that a relative outsider hoists the trophy aloft?

Before we get ahead of ourselves – last year’s winner, the almost-uncrushable Aryna Sabalenka, remains in the draw.

The world No 1 nipping at her heels she’s been playing cat-and-mouse with in the WTA rankings Iga Swiatek is also still in the hat. The pair have made the third round at the last five consecutive grand slams…

Raducanu pays tribute to Mike Dickson during her press conference

I heard the news this morning. I was pretty taken aback, to be honest, because he was here two nights ago, and everything was normal. It just shows how precious life is and puts everything into perspective.

I know I came off a three set loss, but in comparison to what just happened… I was taken aback.

Condolences. It’s a very sad day for everyone, and his family, so I hope you can stay as strong as you can.

Dickson authored the story of the player’s early career, Emma Raducanu: When Tennis Came Home.

Elsewhere, Tomljanovic bites back after bagel

It took Ostapenko just 19 minutes to sweep to a 6-0 opening set victory against the home favourite, but with the crowd behind her, Tomljanovic had no intention of rolling over so easily.

She took the second set 6-3 to much Aussie jubilation, and now we head to a decider.

Ruusuvuori pinches the opening set

The Finnish player has started with intent against the two-time Australian Open finalist, and is on serve to swipe the set.

Ruusuvuori heads to 40-30, and unforced error from Medvedev gets him over the line, 6-3.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland plays a forehand in their round two singles match against Daniil Medvedev during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)

Thanks to an array of upsets and eyebrow-raisers…

… we could see a player breaking new ground in a grand slam semi-final at Melbourne Park.

Only Sloane Stephens – former US Open champion – has got further than a majors semi-final before, and of the remainder, only Zheng Qinwen has reached as far as a grand slam quarter-final match.

WATCH: Raducanu’s post-match press conference

The Briton spoke to reporters after defeat to Yafan Wang on Thursday night.

Raducanu: ‘I’m a lot tougher now’

I’ve been in that situation before, whether it’s with illness or injury, and retired a few times, but to be honest, with what I went through last year, i was like, “okay you feel awful right now”, like at some points I couldn’t see the ball very well, but after everything I went through last year, I was like, it’s made me so much tougher.

There was no way I was going to pull out. She’s going to have to beat me, and she did, she served it out.

The last year off and with the amount of niggles and the setbacks, it did make me a lot tougher.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Emma Raducanu of Great Britain speaks during a press conference after losing her round two singles match against Yafan Wang of China during day five of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Andy Cheung/Getty Images)

Medvedev is underway on Rod Laver Arena

The No 3 seed is facing Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori, who is off to the races against the Russian with an instant break in the first game.

He now leads 4-1 after some clean holds, whilst Medvedev rouses himself from his langour.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Daniil Medvedev looks on in their round two singles match against Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)

Raducanu: ‘In no way was the illness a pyschological issue’

When asked if it might have been a mental block:

No way, because I won the second set, I was feeling good about my tennis, and I felt physically good. Mentally, I don’t why, I just felt really composed the entire time.

I kind of always had this feeling that I was going to come back and tidy up the errors.

I felt pretty composed throughout, it’s just… yeah. I’m not going to divulge too many details.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Emma Raducanu during a press conference after losing her second round match against China's Wang Yafan REUTERS/Edgar Su

Emma Raducanu speaks: ‘I was throwing up in my mouth’

Now I feel a bit better. Ihad some time and during the match I’d say third set I was 30-love up serving, and all of of a sudden just felt so sick, just really weak and nauseous, so thoroughout the third set I think everyone could see it was a bit of a battle.

Physically, bodywise i felt fine, but I was just throwing up in my mouth, and after the match it all came out, but now I’m okay. It just sucks with the timing.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075ey) Emma Raducanu (GBR) dejected in the changeover during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Wang’s road back to grand slam glory

Victory against Raducanu on court 1573 marks the Chinese player’s best-ever grand slam result – a spot in the third round. But what makes Thursday’s result all the more remarkable is that it comes just six months after her return to majors action at the US Open after a staggering two-year break.

Wang opted to stay in China and had her career stymied by the country’s strict Covid travel restrictions, which led to a seven-month hiatus from the tour itself.

Before her stuttered start to the 2020s, the 29-year-old had reached a career-high No 47 in 2019 – it might not be too long before the No 94 muscles her way back inside in the top 50.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Yafan Wang of China celebrates match point in their round two singles match against Emma Raducanu of Great Britain  during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

Blinkova and Rybakina make history Down Under

The preview record of 38 points was jointly-shared between Tsonga-Roddick in 2007, and Tsurenko-Bogdan, set at Wimbledon last year.

Former world No 6 Chanda Rubin gives her two-penny’worth on Raducanu’s defeat

This should be the bright spot for Raducanu, the best she’s felt about her tennis since she won the US Open.

The way she played and competed, if she’s healthy, if she’s feeling good, it’s all positive from that standpoint.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18:  Emma Raducanu of Great Britain reacts in their round two singles match against Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

German news outlets have reported Zverev will stand trial in May, during the French Open, after he was ordered to pay fines of £387,000 ($A750,000) over an alleged assault of former partner Brenda Patea.

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Melbourne Park round-up

Along with Wang and Cazaux, there are some more third-round qualifiers who have completed the day’s business at Melbourne Park.

Wimbledon semi-finalist Elina Svitolina is through after a rote straight-sets victory over Viktoriya Tomova, but world No 3 Elena Rybakina decidedly is not – she lost a grueling 30+ point tie-break to Anna Blinkova, who sits 54 ranks below her in the WTA standings.

Local hero Thanis Kokkinakis tried to disrupt Grigor Dimitrov’s march but was ultimately felled by the Bulgarian in four sets.

But action continues late into the night, with Felix Auger-Aliassime, Alja Tomljanovic, Jelena Ostapenko, Victoria Azarenka, and Hubert Hurkacz all still on court.

epa11087094 Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria celebrates winning his 2nd round match against Thanasi Kokkinakis of Australia at the 2024 Australian Open in Melbourne, Australia, 18 January 2024.  EPA/JOEL CARRETT  AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

Did Raducanu and Wang leave birdseed on the court?

One minute you’re hosting a gritty, three-hour thriller, the next you’re a hotspot for assorted local fauna.

Another MAJOR upset on Margaret Court

21-year-old Frenchman Arthur Cazaux won his first grand slam match in the first round, and chased it with a seismic upset against No 8 seed Holger Rune.

The Dane is a constant in the conversation about the next generation of grand slam winners, but Cazaux stood firm to beat him in four sets, 7-6 6-4 4-6 6-3.

And what a match-winner he pulled out!

MATCH STATS: The facts and figures behind Emma Raducanu’s defeat to Wang Yafan

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Jack Draper pays tribute to Mike Dickson

A thoughtful message from the 22-year-old after his second-round defeat.

One hope’s today won’t live too long in the memory of British tennis…

But for now, you can read about all of the day’s action via Mail Sport’s report, linked below.

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And then there was one…

After Raducanu’s 11th-hour exit, there are no more British women in the singles draw, with Katie Boulter heading out hours earlier against 12th seed Zheng Quinwen.

Cameron Norrie is the last Briton left in Melbourne (in the singles anyway) after Jack Draper was dispatched by a ruthless Tommy Paul, making it a Thursday to forget for Union flag-wavers.

Rather than an all-British affair in the third round, that means we’ll be treated to a showdown between Chinese players, with Wang to start preparations to face Zheng on Saturday.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Cameron Norrie of Great Britain celebrates a point in the round two men's singles match against Giulio Zeppieri during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

A terrific fight from Raducanu

Something had to give at the last, with both players digging deep as a highly physical match took its toll.

Hopefully, the physical issue that was troubling her towards the end of the fight won’t prove a long-term set-back.

Breaking: EMMA RADUCANU IS OUT

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 4-6 Wang Yafan

That is absolutely agonising.

But Emma Raducanu should be proud of her efforts in Melbourne today.

Credit Yafan Wang too, through to the third round of the Australian Open for the first time in her career.

It means only Cameron Norrie remains in the singles for British hopes but Raducanu will come again.

In only her second Slam match back since six months out injured, take the positives. She didn’t give up when she easily could have.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Emma Raducanu of Great Britain reacts in their round two singles match against Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 4-5 (15-30) *Wang Yafan

Wang is just ruthless and a forehand winner leaves Raducanu flat-footed on the baseline.

Two points from victory now…

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 4-5 Wang Yafan

Can Wang serve it out? That’s the million dollar question that we’re about to find out.

We’ve been playing for two hours and 50 minutes.

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 3-5 Wang Yafan

What can Raducanu do on the Wang serve? Not enough, I’m afraid.

One game from victory now for the Chinese.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Emma Raducanu reacts during her second round match against China's Wang Yafan REUTERS/Edgar Su

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 3-4 Wang Yafan

Emma Raducanu holds up her end of the bargain… now what can she do on the Wang serve.

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 2-4 Wang Yafan

A demoralising game for Raducanu that as Wang holds to love, sealing it with an ace.

She needs to hold herself and then make a dent in the Wang serve.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075eu) Emma Raducanu (GBR) coughs during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

A slog for the Brits (and me!)

This live blog has been going for nine hours.

Someone please send some breakfast snacks.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 2-3 *Wang Yafan

That is other worldly from Emma Raducanu.

The angle she gets to narrowly avoid the net with a cross-court backhand is mesmeric for tennis fans around the world.

Either that or I’m very easily impressed.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 1-3 Wang Yafan

And those are the margins I’m afraid.

Wang may be ranked No 94 in the world but she’s got remarkable resilience and a long Raducanu forehand sees a real opportunity come and go.

How much has she got left in the tank after that 11-minute game?

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 1-2 (40-A) *Wang Yafan

After a fourth deuce Wang grabs an advantage… but there is no quit in Raducanu.

So much respect for digging deep here.

Britain's Emma Raducanu hits a return against China's Wang Yafan during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 1-2 (40-40) *Wang Yafan

A fourth break point for Raducanu comes and goes.

This is excruciating as a British tennis fan. It’s right there for her.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 1-2 (40-15) *Wang Yafan

Lady Luck is shining down on Raducanu, who has just benefitted from a fortunate let cord to gain a slender advantage.

She then follows it up with a super passing shot that has Wang bamboozled down her forehand side.

Every point is energising Emma.

From agony to ectsasy for Emma

Emma Raducanu holds to get herself on the board in this third set.

I’m thinking Michael Jordan and the flu game if she can pull this one out… even if it’s only round two.

She’s giving every last ounce of energy now. It’s heroic.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Emma Raducanu during a medical break in second round match against China's Wang Yafan REUTERS/Edgar Su
Britain's Emma Raducanu reacts after a point against China's Wang Yafan during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 0-2 (40-40) Wang Yafan

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 0-2 (0-40) Wang Yafan

This is quickly unravelling.

She doesn’t look right. It was almost like she wanted to be sick at that changeover and we saw that yesterday with Jack Draper after his five-set win.

She’s stll trying to throw some punches with these shots but it’s a deepening hole now.

Emma Raducanu has her blood pressure taken

The former US Open champion isn’t in a good way at all but she’s been given some medication by the trainer and they are satisfied with her blood pressure level.

She does seem to be struggling for breath, though.

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Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 0-2 Wang Yafan

That’s a shame. Wang found the necessary composure to avoid being broken and Raducanu, who is struggling physically now, is running out of steam on some of these points.

Raducanu wants the trainer. This isn’t good at all.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075eh) Emma Raducanu (GBR) dejected during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4, 0-1 (30-30) *Wang Yafan

A Wang double fault – again – gets Raducanu on the board in this second game, but she steadies the ship with an unforced long backhand from Raducanu that drops beyond the baseline.

Raducanu creates a point for 30-30 before sealing it with a drive volley.

Nothing in every single one of these games now with both having some serving woes.

Breaking: Emma Raducanu is BROKEN

One free side of the court to aim at after scurrying into the net and that is an agonising miss from Emma Raducanu.

Early blow and it’s advantage Wang Yafan.

epa11086784 Emma Raducanu of the United kingdom reacts during her second round match against Yafan Wang of China on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia, 18 January 2024.  EPA/LUKAS COCH  AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 0-0 (30-40) Wang Yafan

Flip a coin to decide who comes out on top in this one.

Wang just closes the distance and finishes with an overhead Slam.

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She then punishes a Raducanu return that drops short with a forehand dagger to Raducanu’s backhand side.

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 6-4, 0-0 Wang Yafan

Wang has been off court for quite a while now and Raducanu looks pretty frustrated by it all.

But here we go in the deciding set.

There’s that Raducanu ROAR

Emma Raducanu is pumped up – and I don’t blame her!

Second set summary

Up in the winners count and while she made fewer unforced errors, Wang made them at really unfortunate times.

Winner takes it all in the deciding set then.

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Emma Raducanu WINS the second set

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 6-4 Wang Yafan

If she didn’t believe before, she does now.

The former British No 1 finally clinched it on her fourth set point.

THIS IS ON! Go on Emma… love it (even if I’m tired beyond belief)

Britain's Emma Raducanu reacts as she plays against China's Wang Yafan during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 5-4 (40-40) *Wang Yafan

What a time for Wang to drop in a double fault.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 5-4 (15-15) *Wang Yafan

Raducanu just has to go for it now. Maximum aggression, be bold in decision making.

Else she’ll be out in a few minutes.

Yafan Wang of China reacts during her 2nd round match against Emma Raducanu of the United Kingdom on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

‘I’m playing SO BAD!’

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 5-4 *Wang Yafan

Wang BREAKS and Emma Raducanu can only look to her box with a look of total disbelief.

Wang’s return game has been absolutely remarkable.

She’s like a terrier on that court chasing every single ball down.

Emma Raducanu BREAKS

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 5-3 Wang Yafan

Glorious tennis and that’s a fabulous winner cross-court from the Brit.

Serving for the second set now… how quickly things change.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Emma Raducanu reacts during her second round match against China's Wang Yafan REUTERS/Edgar Su

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 4-3 (40-0) *Wang Yafan

THREE BREAK POINT OPPORTUNITIES.

Potential upset klaxon

Eyes emoji… one to watch away from Raducanu’s match

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 4-3 *Wang Yafan

Just a flat out refusal to give up on both sides and that makes this such compelling viewing.

They are slugging it out rally after rally and it just highlights the level and the quality required at the top level.

Raducanu is resurgent in this second set but it’s still very much in the balance.

Britain's Emma Raducanu hits a return against China's Wang Yafan during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 3-3 Wang Yafan

That’s a fiercely determined hold from the Chinese.

Raducanu isn’t getting any freebies here.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 3-2 (40-30) *Wang Yafan

Stepping in on the second serve of Wang almost paid dividends, only to miscue a forehand into the forehand court.

From there the quality would only heat up and so did the crowd noise.

At the end of a 20-shot rally Raducanu had forced Wang out wide and she clips the net post to tee up a break point.

Britain's Emma Raducanu hits a return against China's Wang Yafan during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 3-2 *Wang Yafan

That’s three consecutive games to the Brit now, some turnaround.

It’s not been vintage from Raducanu but given how long she’s been out, she’d take a gritty, non-aesthetic win from here.

Second set is firmly in the balance.

Emma Raducanu BREAKS

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 2-2 Wang Yafan

With her FIFTH break point in the game, Raducanu is aggressive, closes the distance and finishes into the open court with a driving volley.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Emma Raducanu of Great Britain celebrates a point in their round two singles match against Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 1-2 (40-40) *Wang Yafan

Four break points have come and gone now for the Brit.

Wang is like a brick wall on the other side of that net. Remarkable defence.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 1-2 (40-40) *Wang Yafan

Can’t be wasting two break points at a moment in the match like this.

That’s a huge opportunity missed.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075cm) Emma Raducanu (GBR) reacts after losing the first set during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 1-2 (40-15) *Wang Yafan

Can’t tell if Wang doesn’t want me to go home and is livening this up or she’s actually lost a bit of focus.

A couple of abandoned ball tosses were one tell-tale sign before she plugged in a double fault to set up two break point opportunities.

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 1-2 *Wang Yafan

Huge roar from the partisan crowd as Raducanu delivers a lovely cross-court passing shot forehand winner.

Wang thought she’d won another break when Raducanu looked to be on the backfoot but the powers of recovery were on show for all to see there.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075bt) Emma Raducanu (GBR) celebrates during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 0-2 (A-40) Wang Yafan

A clever drop shot cross-court has turned this one around. Wang gets to it but can only lift it to the net tape, to the delight of Raducanu.

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 0-2 (30-40) Wang Yafan

This is getting ugly fast for Raducanu.

Wang has the answers to everything right now and while she saves the first of the break points, another on the way right behind.

Emma Raducanu’s mum watches on

Emma Raducanu’s mum (middle row, far left) is in attendance and watching on here.

Iain Bates (sat next to her) is making notes on an iPad as he tracks this Raducanu display.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Nick Cavaday, Coach of Emma Raducanu, watches on in the round two singles match between Emma Raducanu of Great Britain and Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu is BROKEN

Emma Raducanu 4-6, 0-1 *Wang Yafan

But perhaps I and others were simply expecting too much from Raducanu after six months on the sidelines injured.

Emma Raducanu of Britain plays a backhand return to Wang Yafan of China during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 0-0 (40-A) Wang Yafan

Problems, problems, problems here.

Emma Raducanu* 4-6, 0-0 (40-30) Wang Yafan

I’m stating the obvious here – I have been on this blog for seven-plus hours now – but Emma Raducanu simply cannot relinquish a break this early in the second set.

It will be curtains, you’d think, if she does.

Summary of the first set

Wang has been absolutely ruthless with her first serve points, claiming 93% of them.

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Emma Raducanu LOSES the first set

Emma Raducanu now needs a flawless two sets to reach round three or it’s over and out for the Brits in the women’s singles draw.

Emma Raducanu 4-5 (0-30) *Wang Yafan

Wang has sublime technique, you can see she has been brilliantly coached. A volley at the net sets up 15-0 before a miscued cross-court forehand from Raducanu puts her two points away from the first set.

A quick shake of the head from the Brit.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: A fan in attendance holds up a sign reading "all you Emma" in the round two singles match between Emma Raducanu of Great Britain and Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 4-5 *Wang Yafan

Nice little run here from Raducanu and she’s done all she can – make Wang serve for this opening set.

A quick sitdown at the changover, a swig of a pink drink, and she needs another break.

Breaking: Emma Raducanu BREAKS

Double fault and Raducanu has a lifeline with one break eradicated.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by James Gourley/Shutterstock (14305075bf) Emma Raducanu (GBR) celebrates during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu 2-5 (40-30) *Wang Yafan

That’s more like it from Raducanu, who finds some depth with a vicious cross-court forehand.

Break point now… and she has a second serve to attack.

Emma Raducanu is down a DOUBLE break

Emma Raducanu 2-5 *Wang Yafan

This is turning into quite a disastrous day for the Brits.

Emma Raducanu, the fourth of them to play in singles today, is now a double break down to Wang Yafan.

This set is slipping away… fast.

Emma Raducanu of the United kingdom during her 2nd round match against Yafan Wang of China on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Emma Raducanu* 2-4 (15-40) Wang Yafan

Newfound respect for this Wang resolve. She just doesn’t know when she’s beaten in a point and it makes sense why she elected to receive after winning the toss.

Two break points for the Chinese now.

Emma Raducanu 2-3 (0-40) *Wang Yafan

Selaed with an ace. Clinical.

Yafan Wang of China during her 2nd round match against Emma Raducanu of the United Kingdom on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Emma Raducanu 2-3 (0-40) *Wang Yafan

Emma Raducanu has been in deeper holes than this one and come out of it… but she will be worried at the lack of finishing ability she has shown so far.

Wang looks comfortable on her own serve and is ready to hold to love here.

Emma Raducanu 2-3 *Wang Yafan

The wind actually works in Raducanu’s favour here as the ball bounced from one side of the net to the other before Wang could touch it – ensuring Raducanu held!

You don’t see that very often.

The more points I see here the more I’m of the belief that this is much more a finesse game than a power game. Conquer the elements and you’ll win.

Emma Raducanu of the United kingdom in action during her 2nd round match against Yafan Wang of China on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Emma Raducanu* 1-3 (30-30) Wang Yafan

The problem I’ve got with Raducanu right now is that her serve out wide is being read with ease it’s become predictable.

Cannot afford to relinquish another break so soon. Settle down and dictate the rhythm again.

Emma Raducanu 1-2 (15-40) *Wang Yafan

That early break has emboldened Wang – and who can blame her?

She’s finding the power that looked to be lacking from the first Raducanu serve and she’s close to consolidating her break here.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ella Ling/Shutterstock (14305075ay) Emma Raducanu (GBR) during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu is BROKEN

Emma Raducanu 1-2 *Wang Yafan

A miscued cross-court backhand at the net and Emma Raducanu is BROKEN.

She has handed that to Wang, but credit the Chinese’s competitive spirit. She is refusing to give up a single point.

Emma Raducanu* 1-1 (30-15) Wang Yafan

A brilliant set-up shot from Raducanu as she kicks a serve out wide to the Wang forehand, before spacing out the court for an eventual long backhand return from Wang two shots later.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Emma Raducanu of Great Britain serves in their round two singles match against Yafan Wang of China during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Emma Raducanu 1-0 (15-30) *Wang Yafan

Wang does not seem to have any answers to that Raducanu forehand right now… and right on cue she shanks a forehand unhandomsely wide of the mark.

Emma Raducanu 1-0 *Wang Yafan

Really nice start that from Raducanu.

Her court coverage is superb and once she finds a groove in a point she’s got a brilliant knack of just dragging her opponent side to side.

Fairly routine so far – now what has she got returning.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ella Ling/Shutterstock (14305075ak) Emma Raducanu (GBR) during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Emma Raducanu 0-0 Wang Yafan

It’s been a LONG wait… kudos to anyone who has stuck with me throughout.

But we’re about to get underway.

Emma Raducanu time

It’s been a brutal day for British hopefuls but I really liked what I saw from Emma Raducanu in her first round match against Shelby Rogers.

If she finds that level I expect her to dispose of Wang Yafan.

A day that started with so much hope has brought so much disappointment.

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Breaking: KATIE BOULTER IS OUT

Katie Boulter 3-6, 3-6 Qinwen Zheng

Moments after Jack Draper’s Australian Open campaign came to an end, Katie Boulter has also crashed out after a straight sets defeat against Qinwen Zheng.

She saved five match points but Zheng just refused to go away. A valiant effort nonetheless.

Hopes of an all-British third round clash against Emma Raducanu, who plays next on this court, have been dashed.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ella Ling/Shutterstock (14305075p) Katie Boulter (GBR) dejected during her second round match Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Breaking: JACK DRAPER IS OUT

That’s that, the young Brit has been left to rue that missed set point up 5-4 in the fourth and it’s Tommy Paul’s first ever win over Jack Draper.

He is beaten 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 7-5

BREAK: Tommy Paul breaks

Tommy Paul* 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 6-5 Jack Draper

Oh no! Jack Draper had a set point moments ago and now he’s been broken and Tommy Paul will serve for the match in the fourth set.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Jack Draper of Great Britain plays a forehand in their round two singles match against Tommy Paul of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Katie Boulter 3-6, 3-5 (40-0) *Qinwen Zheng

Three break points for Katie Boulter. HAS to take one. Has to.

Katie Boulter is BROKEN

Katie Boulter 3-6, 3-5 *Qinwen Zheng

A costly double fault from Katie Boulter and Qinwen Zheng is now serving for the match.

That is so, so disappointing for the Brit.

Zheng Qinwen of China reacts during her second round match against Katie Boulter of Britain at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 5-5 *Jack Draper

Will Jack Draper come back to rue that missed set point?

It feels damaging that Paul has managed to wriggle out of that one with a hold of serve.

The young Brit is still hanging in there but it’s looking ominous.

Chair umpire isn’t happy

It’s been a long time coming in fairness but he’s just made a public address urging people not to speak or shout out during points and serves.

Katie Boulter 3-6, 3-3 *Qinwen Zheng

A costly double fault from Boulter concedes the break. Nightmare.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Katie Boulter reacts during her second round match against China's Qinwen Zheng REUTERS/Edgar Su

Katie Boulter* 3-6, 3-2 (40-40) Qinwen Zheng

Boulter’s sixth forehand winner of the set teed up two game points and the Brit is beaten by a backhand winner for the first, before netting the second of them having been rushed.

Important she consolidates her break with a hold here. It’s positively crucial.

Meanwhile…

This guy is a joy to watch. An absolute JOY.

Katie Boulter* 3-6, 3-2 Qinwen Zheng

A fabulous and vicious cross-court winner sets up break point and after a service fault brings up second serve, Zheng, who has an issue with a member in the crowd, double faults.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 China's Qinwen Zheng in action during her second round match against Britain's Katie Boulter REUTERS/Edgar Su

Tommy Paul* 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 4-4 *Jack Draper

Back to events with Jack Draper and he is doing all he can to try and force a deciding set.

The fight he is showing is admirable. He feels like he’s got a second wind and with Andy Murray as one of his heroes, he was one who would never quit.

UPSET KLAXON

A HUGE shock in the women’s draw.

Clara Burel is just 22 but this is easily the most impressive win of her career to date. Wow.

BREAK: Jack Draper

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 2-2 *Jack Draper

A pumped up Jack Draper levels things up in this fourth set, much to the disappointment of Tommy Paul.

Will that inject some life back into this contest for the young Brit? Let’s see…

FIRST SET: Katie Boulter 3-6 Qinwen Zheng

Oh dear – a lot for Katie Boulter to think about at this change of ends.

Riddled by unforced errors, the British No 1 coughs up the first set at the first opportunity.

Zheng Qinwen of China plays a forehand return to Katie Boulter of Britain during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)

BREAK: Tommy Paul

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6, 6-3, 2-0 *Jack Draper

The American looks in a hurry now and he’s rushing to get this wrapped up.

He breaks Jack Draper to start the fourth and then holds in the blink of an eye.

Katie Boulter* 3-5 Qinwen Zheng

No free points for Katie Boulter here but she’s definitely in this match.

It’s an impressive hold from Zheng but if Boulter can settle herself on the first serve, this one could turn quickly.

Katie Boulter of Britain reacts during her second round match against Zheng Qinwen of China at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)

SET: Tommy Paul

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 Jack Draper

Draper looks a little bit leggy and he needs to shake that off if he’s to have any chance.

Qinwen Zheng BREAKS Katie Boulter

Katie Boulter 2-3 *Qinwen Zheng

That’s a break for a break, then. Both players look a lot more comfortable on the return which is no surprise.

Poor serving conditions means they are shaving some power off and it’s showing.

Katie Boulter BREAKS back

Katie Boulter* 2-2 Qinwen Zheng

The wind is causing some issues for the Chinese now and the partisan crowd – littered with Brits crying ‘come on Katie!’ – are making a racket.

Smile from Boulter after a clever drop shot seals the break.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Katie Boulter in action during her second round match against China's Qinwen Zheng REUTERS/Edgar Su

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6, 5-2 *Jack Draper

Back to the Jack Draper match and he is forcing some exquisite shots out of Tommy Paul here to make the American earn these holds of serve.

See also  Dan Evans inspires Great Britain to a ATP Cup victory over Germany

One set from taking a two-set to one lead now.

End of an Era for Danielle Collins

The defeated American has confirmed in her post-match press conference that her defeat by Iga Swiatek will be her final match at the Australian Open in her career.

Qinwen Zheng holds

Katie Boulter 0-2 Qinwen Zheng

Way to go backing up that early break.

Work to do here for Katie Boulter against a player that, while I haven’t watched her every single week on Tour, has no obvious weaknesses.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 China's Qinwen Zheng in action during her second round match against Britain's Katie Boulter REUTERS/Edgar Su

Katie Boulter is BROKEN

Disastrous opening service game from Katie Boulter as she is broken by Qinwen Zheng.

A backhand slice doesn’t pay off down break point and it sits up perfectly for Zheng to attack cross court.

BREAK: Tommy Paul

Tommy Paul* 6-2, 3-6, 2-0 Jack Draper

That’s a gift for the American I’m afraid but is sort of befitting of the topsy-turvy nature of this match.

He’s found his big serve again and Draper has just miscued at crucial times.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Tommy Paul of the United States plays a backhand in their round two singles match against Jack Draper of Great Britain during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Katie Boulter about to get underway

This one won’t be easy but Katie Boulter is out and is looking relaxed, resplendent in green once again.

Twelfth seed Qinwen Zheng stands in her way.

The brilliant Laura Robson is on co-commentary duty for this one.

If you’re just waking up and wondering what you missed, Iga Swiatek produced an epic on Rod Laver Arena.

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SET: Jack Draper

Tommy Paul 6-2, 3-6 Jack Draper

Winning 92 per cent of his second serve points, that was much, much better from Jack Draper.

Tommy Paul knows he is in for a game now.

Cameron Norrie’s match summary

Look at that disparity in winners… and yet the one marching on is the British No 1.

It’s Katie Boulter up next on this court.

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Breaking: Cameron Norrie WINS

Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 Guilio Zeppieri

For only the third time in his career, Cameron Norrie has come back from two sets down to take victory.

The British No 1 could see the exit sign flashing above the Australian Open door but he refused to give up.

Little by little he got a foothold and now he marches on to round three where he will face Casper Ruud.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Cameron Norrie reacts during his second round match against Italy's Giulio Zeppieri REUTERS/Edgar Su

33-shot rally in Paul-Draper

Tommy Paul 6-2, 2-4 (30-40) *Jack Draper

And Jack Draper is left standing on top. The quality is off the charts.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Jack Draper of Great Britain reacts in their round two singles match against Tommy Paul of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

BREAK: Cameron Norrie

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4, 5-4 Guilio Zeppieri

A potentially HUGE moment as the Italian blinks.

Cameron Norrie now has the chance to serve his way to the third round.

Reminder: he was two sets down and looked all but out.

Novak Djokovic’s tribute to Mike Dickson

Mike Dickson was so well regarded by all of the players on the ATP and WTA Tours.

Novak Djokovic is the latest to send his condolences.

Tommy Paul* 6-2, 1-4 Jack Draper

There is so much going on right now I need an extra pair of eyes. But over on the Show Court, Jack Draper has a glint in his eye now.

He’s such a powerful hitter but it’s his decision making that I like a lot right now. He’s not just leathering it in hope, he’s picking his spots and Tommy Paul just can’t seem to stem the tide.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Jack Draper of Great Britain celebrates a point in their round two singles match against Tommy Paul of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

BREAK: Jack Draper

Tommy Paul 6-2, 1-3 *Jack Draper

A great response after he was outplayed for much of that first serve.

The young Brit has just broken to take advantage of this second set.

Tommy Paul’s level has dropped a smidge. Draper just has to consolidate it now.

Taken to the brink

Another of the Marathon Men is Alexander Zverev and he has just pulled himself through a grueller.

Lie down pending for the German.

Commentary tribute to Mike Dickson

A lovely moment just now before Norrie serves in the sixth game of the fifth set.

A tribute in commentary to the great Mike Dickson, our man on the ground for tennis for more than three decades at the Mail.

‘He followed the Brits everywhere and this is a massive loss to tennis’

29th ace of the match helps Zeppieri

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4, 2-3 Guilio Zeppieri

That will sting for Norrie. There were chances there to steal that game.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Giulio Zeppieri of Italy serves in the round two men's singles match against Cameron Norrie of Great Britain during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4, 2-2 (30-40) *Guilio Zeppieri

Opportunity knocks here for Cameron Norrie.

Guilio Zeppieri has shown cracks in the armour after more than three hours of on-court action.

Any break now – particularly with the Italian’s first serve contnually going awry – would be massive.

Ruud awakening

I spoke about some marathon matches earlier… well here is Casper Ruud beating home favourite Max Purcell in a five-set epic.

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-2 (15-15) Guilio Zeppieri

I’ll give credit to Guilio Zeppieri for hanging in there after his medical time-out.

He is not giving Norrie an inch right now and every point earned has been EARNED.

It seems the Italian’s game-plan is to just stay in rallies as long as he can in a bid to force mistakes. He’s not moving too much off his baseline.

SET: Tommy Paul

Tommy Paul tightened up with a wayward attempt at a cross-court winner on the first of two set points but he makes no mistake on the second.

Smashing a winner out from the sky.

He’s blown Jack Draper away in that 41-minute opening set.

Tommy Paul* 5-2 (40-15) Jack Draper

This has been near faultless from Tommy Paul and he’s now got two set points.

Paul looks so comfortable slugging it out from the baseline. No real appetite to close the distance which shows off his power.

SET: Cameron Norrie

It’s better news for Cameron Norrie as he scales the mountain to come back from two sets down to force a fifth set decider.

The momentum is all with the British No 1 now. What an effort.

Here’s a summary of that 6-4 fourth set.

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Jack Draper is down a DOUBLE break (again!)

Tommy Paul* 5-2 Jack Draper

OK so that was short lived.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Jack Draper of Great Britain plays a backhand in their round two singles match against Tommy Paul of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

BREAK: Jack Draper

That’s more like it. Jack Draper eradicates one of the breaks against him.

I hope that settles him down. He’s a big hitter, like Paul, but he can more than hold his own in this slugfest.

Norrie-Zeppieri is back underway

The Italian gingerly makes his way back onto the court as Cameron Norrie looks to serve his way to within one game of the fourth set.

Unsurprisingly the Brit wants to make the Italian run, particularly with this niggling calf complaint.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Cameron Norrie of Great Britain plays a forehand in the round two men's singles match against Giulio Zeppieri of Italy during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

Medical time-out: Guilio Zeppieri

Jack Draper is down a DOUBLE break

Jack Draper has never previously dropped a set in his head-to-head with Tommy Paul but this has been a disastrous start.

He rushes to the net to try and pull it back to deuce but a comfortable passing shot down the line for Paul gives him a 4-1 advantage in the first set.

Just too good from the American right now.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Jack Draper of Great Britain reacts in their round two singles match against Tommy Paul of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Physio called to the court

Cameron Norrie’s opponent Guilio Zeppieri has called for the physio. Looks like a calf issue – although there was no obvious injury as he headed to the benches.

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Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 4-3 Guilio Zeppieri

An early break helped settle any early nerves from Cameron Norrie and Guilio Zeppieri is suddenly allowing errors to creep in.

Norrie closing in on sending this to a deciding set.

Iga Swiatek’s breakfast order

Not too sure why I’m allowing this to breach the blog… it’s way too early for me to be salivating about breakfast.

But Iga Swiatek already has her eyes on some banana bread!

BREAK: Tommy Paul

It’s first blood to the American as a cross-court forehand misses by a hair from Jack Draper.

Paul looks the more experienced player – which he is – and Draper needs to figure him out quickly on the fly to stop Paul running away with this.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 16: Tommy Paul of the United States plays a backhand in their round one men's singles match against Gregoire Barrere of France during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

Tommy Paul 1-1 (40-40) *Jack Draper

Nine errors already by Jack Draper.

Keep that up and he’ll be back in the locker room and out of the tournament in no time.

Tommy Paul 1-1 (30-30) *Jack Draper

A brilliant kick-serve out wide from Draper puts him in control of a point that he is able to finish with a cross-court volley at the net.

He needs to neutralise the heavy hitting of Paul by losing the distance.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 16: Tommy Paul of the United States plays a backhand in their round one men's singles match against Gregoire Barrere of France during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Will Murray/Getty Images)

Tommy Paul 1-1 *Jack Draper

Jack Draper – who threw up in a bin after his round one five-set epic – will be pleased to have opened with a hold.

But losing to love in Paul’s first service game, fit with his monstrous serve, won’t do much to inspire confidence.

History in the making

Iga Swiatek is in esteemed company after that epic turnaround win.

Breaking: IGA SWIATEK WINS!

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 Danielle Collins

Fighting back from a double break down in the deciding set, Iga Swiatek has just shown why she has absolutely no quit in her as the world No 1 rallies her way into the third round.

She dropped her two match points on Collins’ serve with a volley into the net and then a forehand return into the bottom of the net.

When a third presented itself Swiatek had had enough of the back and forth to win it with a spectacular backhand down the line. Wow.

Poland's Iga Swiatek hits a return against USA's Danielle Collins during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images)

Jack Draper on court and underway

It’s all going off with Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins but we’ll be turning our attentions to Jack Draper now he’s out on court…

Grab the popcorn

It’s too early for all this drama… but I still absolutely love it.

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-6, 5-4 *Danielle Collins

OK so I definitely wrote off the world No 1 too hastily.

Collins looks shaken now and she has to rid that at the changeover or she’ll lose this at a canter for Swiatek.

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 3-6, 4-4 Danielle Collins

Leading by a double break… Danielle Collins has thrown it all away to the world No 1.

The panic etched on her face now has her box sweating.

She HAS to dig deep now it’s back on serve.

USA's Danielle Collins reacts after a point against Poland's Iga Swiatek during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images)

Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 0-0 Guilio Zeppieri

Right, let’s get back underway in this one…

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-6, 3-4 *Danielle Collins

No room for error now for Danielle Collins. Put simply, you feel she has to stay loose and hold serve here.

The tension in Rod Laver Arena is absolutely immense.

Two titans slugging it out.

Poland's Iga Swiatek hits a return against USA's Danielle Collins during their women's singles match on day five of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 18, 2024. (Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images)

Breaking: Players are back out on outside courts

I enjoyed the Mexican wave at the start but it was beginning to grate… maybe it’s just 4am and I’m being ungrateful.

But I am bleary eyed and very glad to see the players return to the court.

Now if the rain can kindly stay away we can finally get to watch some of these brilliant Brits in action.

BREAK: Iga Swiatek

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 3-6, 2-4 Danielle Collins

In the blink of an eye Swiatek takes the break back. Collins turns her back to the court, hand on hip and takes a deep breath to compose herself.

Panic has to be setting in on both sides of the court for very different reasons.

Mood

I feel you, Iga. I feel you.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Poland's Iga Swiatek during her second round match against Danielle Collins of the U.S. REUTERS/Edgar Su

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-6, 1-4 *Danielle Collins

Iga Swiatek must think the world is against her.

A fortunate let cord presents Collins with two break points in the deciding set.

Swiatek is able to save the first coming into the net with a cross-court volleyed winner.

Collins claims it on the second though, getting into a short rally before Swiatek cannons a cross-court forehand well wide of the line to go down a double break.

This could be over real soon. What a match!

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 3-6, 1-3 Danielle Collins

That’s a massive hold from Danielle Collins and she let out a huge roar when sealing game.

You can’t blame her either. Losing a break there would have undone so much of her good work.

It has to be flawless from here on in for Swiatek though. Anything less and she’ll be unceremoniously dumped out.

Marathon matches in Melbourne

So much for some routine early round matches.

These are just some of the ties going on currently:

  • Max Purcell 3-6, 7-6, 3-6, 4-2 (30-30) Casper Ruud
  • Alexander Zverev 7-5, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6, 0-0 Lukas Klein
  • Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-7, 6-2, 0-0 Guilio Zeppieri

Disbelief for Iga

Disbelief is the ideal world to describe the world No 1.

It’s like her head is spinning and she can’t find a way to stop it.

BREAK: Danielle Collins

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-6, 1-2 *Danielle Collins

Corr, that’s how you get a break in, with a thundering backhand winner.

Danielle Collins looks fully in control of this and Iga Swiatek, dear oh dear.

The world No 1 is like a heavyweight boxer who isn’t sure how to get off the ropes.

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 3-6, 1-1 (15-30) Danielle Collins

World No 1 Iga Swiatek doesn’t look comfortable at all now.

She’s changed her racket and just had another sent away to be re-strung.

A timely ace – her third of the match – gets her a foothold in this game.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Iga Swiatek of Poland reacts in their round two singles match against Danielle Collins of the United States during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Mexican wave on the outside courts

Yeah, we’re in that sort of territory.

I can’t blame them, they need to entertain themselves.

The court now looks to have dried out but there is to be no play for a further 30 minutes, according to tournament organisers. They are reluctant to get going and for it to start raining again – which I get.

For now we keep our eyes peeled on this epic deciding set between Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins.

Food delivery by DRONES

That’s the idea brewing at the Australian Open.

Something tells me players won’t be too impressed when multiple drones are flying overhead delivering burgers and hot dogs, though.

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Solid GIF work here

Hat tip to the Australian Open account on X for this GIF – taken from Danielle Collins’ rallying cry to her box to get ‘up’ and make some noise.

British schedule update

Ok so, what’s the latest?

Well, this recent rain delay has gone on a while and has knocked everything back so here is what we know:

Jack Draper: Faces Tommy Paul, who was a semi-finalist here last year. He is the next scheduled match on Show Court 2. If we’re being optimistic that one could be underway by 4am BST.

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Katie Boulter: Faces China’s Qinwen Zheng directly after Norrie. We have at least one more set to go in that one, if not two, so that could be much closer to 5-5:30am now.

Emma Raducanu: Was not due to take to the court before 3.30am – as she takes on China’s Wang Yafan. That was optimistic from organisers… it could be nearer to 7am UK time now in a boost to UK-based fans.

Jack Draper of Britain plays a backhand return to Marcos Giron of the U.S. during their first round match at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

If you read anything today, tomorrow or for the rest of the week, I urge you to make it this.

A simply stunning tribute to one of the greats in sports journalism.

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Breaking: SET: Danielle Collins

The world No 62 has the world No 1 on the ropes you say?

Women’s tennis is one of the best things going. Every week there are upsets brewing and there is a real possibility of one right here.

That was a splendid set for the most part from Danielle Collins.

12 winners for the American compared to eight from the Pole.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Danielle Collins of the United States plays a forehand in their round two singles match against Iga Swiatek of Poland during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Three set points…

Five have come and gone… here are three more if required.

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 3-5 (0-30) *Danielle Collins

Danielle Collins will be having flashbacks if she coughs up another break here.

It’s a strong start with a pair of Swiatek misses putting her within two points of the set.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Danielle Collins of the United States serves in their round two singles match against Iga Swiatek of Poland during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Teenage Dream for Noskova

A story that will go under the radar but some win this from Czech sensation Linda Noskova, particularly after a one-sided second set from her opponent.

The kids are alright, aren’t they?

Still no play on the outside courts

Very wet, very drizzly and not fit to play tennis in.

Let’s hope I have better news for you very soon.

BREAK: Iga Swiatek

The American is pushing to take this one to a deciding set – and yet a fourth double fault in this seventh game of the set has seen Iga Swiatek break.

It looked like Collins had perhaps passed up her chance when a double fault saw her cough up the third of three set points.

A fourth set point came and went with a weak second serve punished as expected by the world No 1.

Saving two break points she turned to her box and yelled ‘Up! Up!’ as her team roared to their feet.

But Swiatek continued to punish every lapse and with a heavy arm, a double fault gifted one break back.

Iga Swiatek of Poland in action during her 2nd round match against Danielle Collins of the USA on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Breaking: Danielle Collins BREAKS

Iga Swiatek 6-4, 1-5 *Danielle Collins

Iga Swiatek looks in deep, deep waters now and her coach is twitching in her box.

Brilliant from Danielle Collins and she will now serve for the set. Swiatek decides it’s time for a racket change.

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 1-4 (0-30) Danielle Collins

Corrr, Swiatek drops one into the Collins backhand and the American absolutely rips it.

I’m sat here on my own beaming at that shot. Mamma Mia.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Danielle Collins of the U.S. in action during her second round match against Poland's Iga Swiatek REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 1-4 Danielle Collins

What have you got world No 1?

Danielle Collins is determined to give this Rod Laver Arena crowd a show and the semi-finalist from a few years ago isn’t willing to go out on a whimper.

Her serve has looked good but writing Swiatek off seems positively foolish. Cracking match that is in the balance now.

Picture Perfect

There is just something about tennis under a roof.

I just absolutely love it.

Danielle Collins BREAKS

Pin-drop silence as a cross-court back-hand winner wrongfoots the world No 1 and there’s life in Danielle Collins’ Australian Open campaign yet.

I told you she wasn’t done after that first set!

Iga Swiatek* 6-4, 1-2 (30-30) Danielle Collins

No, Ben. The answer is no.

Work to do at the start of the second set though…

Breaking: PLAY SUSPENDED

I wish I was joking… but the British weather has hit Melbourne and it’s soaking again on the outside courts.

Can someone invent a giant umbrella to whack over the court? Delivery – ASAP.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Ground staff members dry out the court during the second round match between Italy's Giulio Zeppieri and Britain's Cameron Norrie as the match is interrupted due to rain REUTERS/Edgar Su

SET: Cameron Norrie

The British No 1 closes out the third set to love and truth be told it looked like Guilio Zeppieri sort of gave that one up to preserve his energy for the fourth.

A 47-second hold of serve speaks volumes.

But it is game on now (and means a longer wait for Katie Boulter and Emma Raducanu, with their matches to follow on this 1573 Arena court)

Cameron Norrie BREAKS again

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 5-2 Guilio Zeppieri

Wow – two double faults in a row and that’s a gift Cameron Norrie will take again and again and again.

The British No 1 now has the chance to serve out this first set to halve the deficit.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Britain's Cameron Norrie in action during his second round match against Italy's Giulio Zeppieri REUTERS/Edgar Su

Cameron Norrie 3-6, 6-7, 4-2 (A-40) *Guilio Zeppieri

A double fault from Zeppieri and opportunity knocks here…

Rafa Nadal’s Mike Dickson tribute

Mike was one of the titans of the sport off the court and players right across the rankings have been deeply affected.

This is a poignant tribute from the great Rafa Nadal, who Mike covered so extensively during his 33 years with the Mail.

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 3-2 (A-40) Guilio Zeppieri

I really don’t like how much on the backfoot Norrie looks in these points.

Even on his own serve it doesn’t look quite right. The Italian just looks in control of a lot of these points.

The constant stop-start nature of this match cannot have helped Norrie, especially after his Medical Time-Out in the opening stages.

FIRST SET – IGA SWIATEK

The world No 1 takes the opening set 6-4 against Danielle Collins and her roar of celebration suggests she knows very well that she is in a real battle here.

Collins has more than enough to turn this around but it’s a tough ask from here against the brick wall that is Swiatek, who had a 74% first serve percentage.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Iga Swiatek of Poland in action against Danielle Collins of the United States in the second round on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia (Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images)

Breaking: Cameron Norrie is back out on court

Some light applause for the Brit as he and his tennis bag return to the court. No sign of Guilio Zeppieri yet.

The 1573 Arena has just had about a 25-minute break. My concern is that while the court is dry now, there’s a menacing black cloud hanging overhead.

Can that just clear off please? Thanks, from every tennis fan everywhere.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ella Ling/Shutterstock (14305074a) Cameron Norrie of GBR frustrated as he leaves court following a rain delay Australian Open, Day Five, Tennis, Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - 18 Jan 2024

Iga Swiatek BREAKS

Now, now. You CANNOT open the door like that to the world No 1.

Danielle Collins is forced to take a bit of zip off her second serve and that is all the encouragement Swiatek needs to break at 5-4, with a smart volley into the empty court leaving a dejected Collins watching on.

She will serve for the set now.

Sun makes a rare appearance

I don’t want to get carried away here but I think that might be actual sunlight flowing over the outside courts.

It also helps that the surfaces no longer look super slick and like they’ve been soaked by a hose-pipe.

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 18, 2024 Fans cover themselves in the stands due to rain during the second round match between Italy's Giulio Zeppieri and Britain's Cameron Norrie REUTERS/Edgar Su

What’s going on with Alexander Zverev?

Truth be told, I hadn’t been tracking this one too closely as it looked set to be a routine win for Zverev.

He took the first set 7-5 against Lukas Klein – the world No 163 – and yet it’s been disastrous for the German from that moment on.

Beaten 6-3 in the second set, he’s now down an early break in the third.

Stories like this just make me feel very single – I don’t know about you guys.

But find out which lucky charm bonds one of tennis’ power couples…

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Iga Swiatek 4-4 *Danielle Collins

When I tell you these two are serving up an absolute treat on Rod Laver Arena I mean it.

The quality of the ball striking and the power behind them is something to behold.

Every break is going to be absolutely huge in this one with so little between them.

Iga Swiatek of Poland in action during her 2nd round match against Danielle Collins of the USA on Day 5 of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Thursday, January 18, 2024. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY

Ball kids row is brewing

Safe to say, fans are less than impressed at the ball kids being made to wipe these courts down with a towel on their hands and knees.

Frankly, they’ve got a point. Surely this isn’t in the job description?!

Over on the Rod Laver Arena…

Iga Swiatek 3-3 (40-40) *Danielle Collins

We do have match action over on Rod Laver Arena following a short delay to close the roof there.

Two titans are in action and it is going to serve right now.

I marvel every time I get to see the Swiatek backhand. What a fabulous shot from a fabulous player.

Breaking: PLAY SUSPENDED ON OUTSIDE COURTS

Umbrellas are out in the stands and hoods are up as the players head into the locker room.

That court is completely washed now and is in no state to play a match of tennis on.

Annoying – yes – but sensible heads have prevailed.

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Rain delay (again)

Cameron Norrie is getting annoyed now, and I don’t blame him.

Just as he launches an ace to go up 15-0 in the sixth game of the third set, play is stopped again.

But it is dangerous on court now with the amount of sudden rain and with puddles forming, there’s not a lot of choice for the chair umpire.

Let’s see how long this one lasts…

Nick Kyrgios has a plan for Novak Djokovic

Play still suspended on some of the courts, so here is a brilliant clip of Nick Kyrgios – in the commentary booth rather than on court in this tournament – having a hilarious exchange with Novak Djokovic.

Well worth a few minutes of your time.

Cameron Norrie* 3-6, 6-7, 2-1 Guilio Zeppieri

Zeppieri holds to get on the board.

Cameron Norrie leads 2-1 in the third.

Short rain delay is over

Quick rub down of the baselines with towels from the ball-kids and we should be back up and running on the outside courts shortly.

Cameron Norrie best hope he hasn’t lost the momentum he was building.

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While he wait for play to resume, let’s look at another beautiful tribute to our legendary tennis correspondent Mike Dickson.

This one comes from former BBC presenter Sue Barker, who could call Mike a friend after so many years working across tennis.

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Breaking: RAIN DELAY

OK so it’s raining, the black cloud has finally let rip and with Norrie leading 2-0 in the third and at deuce as he eyes a second break, play has been temporarily suspended due to rain.

Ball kids are hesitantly making their way off but buckle up, this is going to take a while…

Belter on Rod Laver Arena

It’s going to serve over on the Rod Laver Arena at 3-3 as two heavyweights of the women’s game slug it out.

I’ll keep you across that one… but don’t bet against Danielle Collins causing a shock.

Cameron Norrie BREAKS

Cameron Norrie comes out with an enhanced level of aggression and breaks in the opening game of the third set.

He’s got a mountain to climb still – and it’s still unlikely – but that’s how you need to start if you are going to come back from two sets down.

Now he needs to turn the screw and hold. Looks like he has the bit between his teeth now which I like a lot.

British schedule

There is plenty to get our teeth stuck into but this is the current state of play.

Note: Katie Boulter and Emma Raducanu’s matches follow on the same court as Norrie-Zeppieri, so if this goes five sets, we could be here a while.

Jack Draper: Faces Tommy Paul, who was a semi-finalist here last year, at around 2am.

Katie Boulter: Faces China’s Qinwen Zheng directly after Norrie, which could be as early as 2.15am.

Emma Raducanu: Will not take to the court before 3.30am – and could be even later – as she takes on China’s Wang Yafan.

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British No 1 down two sets

British No 1 Cameron Norrie is in a real hole here, down two sets to love to world No 133 Guilio Zeppieri.

The Italian is playing lights out tennis and while he stuttered with the first of his three set points, he closed it out with an unreturnable first serve.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 18: Giulio Zeppieri of Italy plays a backhand in their round two singles match against Cameron Norrie of Great Britain during the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Problems brewing for Cam

Two errors at the end of big rallies has Norrie shouting out in disbelief.

It really is admirable defence from Zeppieri, it really is, and he leads 5-2 in this seven-point tiebreak as he bids to go two sets up.

Work to do for Cameron Norrie

Giulio Zeppieri holds. Impressive resolve there.

epa11086116 Cameron Norrie of the UK in action against Giulio Zeppieri of Italy during a Men's Singles match at the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne, Australia, 18 January 2024.  EPA/MAST IRHAM

What’s the latest in Melbourne?

Well, Katie Boulter, Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu are waiting patiently for their matches to start and are, like me, keeping an eye on events between Cameron Norrie and Giulio Zeppieri.

The plucky Italian took the first set impressively 6-3 but a key break for Norrie down 5-4 has seen momentum swing to the point where he is on the cusp of another break up 6-5.

He really needs this set or it’s a mountain to climb…

The world of tennis was in mourning at news of Mike’s sudden passing.

Here are just some of the tributes that flooded in for one of the titans of the reporting room.

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It’s important to me and to the Mail that we start this live blog off in tribute to a great man and a great reporter.

News that our legendary tennis writer – affectionately known as Mr Wimbledon – Mike Dickson had passed away over in Melbourne covering the Open this week proved devastating for all.

He was excited for these upcoming matches, charting the highs and lows of the Brits with so many in action here today.

So, this one is to you Mike. Rest easy.

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Big day for the Brits

Good morning one and all,

For those of us braving the early hours for Australian Open action, well played.

I’ll be here for the next several hours to keep you across all the events in Melbourne, from Cameron Norrie’s struggles against an Italian qualifier, to Katie Boulter, Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu.

Four Brits remain in singles, but how many will make round three? Let’s find out…

Australian OpenEmma Raducanu



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