EMMA'S SEED OF DOUBT

World No1 lies in wait for Briton

- BY YASMIN SYED IN MELBOURNE

EMMA RADUCANU is seeded at a Grand Slam for the first time in more than three years - but that has not stopped her from landing a nightmare draw at the Australian Open.

It's been a tough start to 2026 for the British No.1 and, to add insult to injury, Raducanu looks set to face two-time former champion Aryna Sabalenka in Melbourne.

As the 28th seed, Raducanu does not have to face any other top players until round three. But the Brit has arguably the toughest task if she gets there, as she is projected to face the world No.1.

The top seed has a 3-0 unbeaten record against Raducanu, including a third-round win at Wimbledon last year. Raducanu looked primed to have a good year after extending her partnership with Spanish coach Francisco Roig but things haven't gone to plan.