Defending champion Emma Raducanu dumped out of US Open in first round by Alize Cornet

In one of the biggest upsets of the US Open so far, defending champion Emma Raducanu was ousted by Frenchwoman Alize Cornet in their first round clash.

Cornet played some inspired tennis to seize a 6-3 6-3 victory over the World No.11, stunning the crowd who were fully behind the British teenager. After obtaining an early break to lead 2-0, the French veteran was immediately broken back by Raducanu, who would not go down easily.

Read also

"Tough act to follow for both of them" - Evert on Raducanu and Fernandez

With both ladies looking shaky to start the match, it was Cornet who maintained her rhythm. Despite hitting nine double faults, the 32-year old never lost focus, frustrating Raducanu with frequent forays to the net where she won 14 of 16 points.

Conversely, Raducanu seemed to lose confidence as the match wore on. This was evident in her shot-selection, as the 19-year old sprayed errant shots from both wings. Raducanu hit 15 winners to 31 unforced errors, and was never able to establish her authority as Cornet dictated play with a variety of shots.

Read also

2022 US Open WTA Entry List with Iga Swiatek, Serena Williams and Emma Raducanu (Last Update - 25-08)

Despite the crowd's attempt to spur on the 2021 champion, it was to no avail. Raducanu was unable to serve to stay in the match at 3-5 in the second set, sending another backhand long as Cornet booked her spot in the second round after an hour and 42 minutes.

wta

@WTA

·Follow

A memorable moment for the Grand Slam mainstay 🙌 @alizecornet | #USOpen

Watch on Twitter

538

Reply

Copy link

Read 13 replies