Swiatek crushes Raducanu to reach the last 16 of the Australian Open

This was the eagerly-awaited opening match of the Rod Laver Arena program. Current world number 2 Iga Swiatek challenged Emma Raducanu, who is hoping to return to the form that won her the US Open in 2021.

Nevertheless, the challenge was immense for the Briton, who had never beaten the Pole in three previous encounters.

In fact, she has never won a set against Swiatek on the main tour.

And the statistics don't look set to improve, as the five-time Grand Slam winner was quick off the mark in a one-sided match, surrendering just one game to Raducanu (6-1, 6-0 in 1h08).

Raducanu didn't have a single break point and suffered the wrath of her opponent (9 winners versus 24 for Swiatek, who only made 12 unforced errors).

The Polish player, who has been on a roll since the start of the tournament, calmly qualified for the second week without dropping a single set on her way.

She will face German lucky loser Eva Lys (who beat Cristian in three sets) for a place in the quarters.

Swiatek had this to say on court after her big win: "I'm just trying to enjoy myself when I'm playing.

I made a few shots where I thought 'This is what I'm training for'. That's why I enjoyed playing this match today.

I felt confident. In the end, I think I could have put her under even more pressure, but converting all those break points was very important. I'm happy with my performance," she assures us.