• Emma Raducanu took the first set 6-3 against Camila Osorio in Hobart.
  • Osorio fought through a persistent cough and broke early in the second set to lead 1-0.
  • Raducanu is the top seed and is using Hobart as her final event before the Australian Open.
  • She lost her first match of the season to Maria Sakkari but looked sharp in parts against Osorio.

Raducanu claims opening set in tight Hobart battle

Emma Raducanu secured the opening set 6-3 against Camila Osorio in their first-round Hobart International clash. The British top seed appeared to gain the upper hand after a scrappy start, using aggressive baseline play and strong returns to close out the set.

Set-by-set: key moments

The first set saw breaks and counter-breaks early on, with Raducanu ultimately taking control as she mixed deep groundstrokes with timely winners. Osorio, who has been battling an audible cough throughout the match, pushed Raducanu in several games and saved set points with an ace before Raducanu sealed the opener.

Early in the second set Osorio produced a brilliant drop shot to earn a break and grabbed a 1-0 lead, proving she remained dangerous despite her illness. At the latest update, the Colombian’s energetic game and moments of high-quality shotmaking kept the contest competitive.

Tactical picture: what worked for Raducanu

Raducanu relied on a mix of power and variety. She held her serve when it mattered and produced clutch winners under pressure, particularly from the forehand wing. Her return game disturbed Osorio’s rhythm and helped create the break opportunities in set one.

Former players on commentary noted Osorio’s confidence on the court — her drop shots and backhand winners were effective — but her persistent coughing interrupted momentum and may have affected her stamina.

Context: tune-up for the Australian Open

This tournament is Raducanu’s final event before the Australian Open, which begins on Sunday 18 January. The top seed is aiming to sharpen form after losing her first match of the season to Maria Sakkari. A positive outing in Hobart would boost her confidence heading into the Grand Slam.

What to watch next

Raducanu will look to maintain the momentum and convert the second-set break back into her favour. Osorio’s fitness and ability to manage her cough will be a key factor if the match extends. Fans should watch for Raducanu’s serve placement and Osorio’s use of slice and drop shots as the contest develops.

The match remains live, with updates continuing as play progresses. For many, this is a first glimpse of Raducanu’s form ahead of the season’s first major.

Image Referance: https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/live/c0erqdqprd4t