Rising Australian tennis star Emerson Jones’s Brisbane International debut has ended in a 72-minute second-round defeat at the hands of Liudmila Samsonova.
Jones went down in the high-quality encounter 6-4, 6-1 against Samsonova, who is currently the world number 17.
The former junior world number one, who is now transitioning to the professional circuit, showed flashes of her enormous talent but was outclassed by the Russian.
In the first set, Jones appeared to be in control.
She was aggressive with her shots and directed play from the back of the court, firing up the crowd when she broke Samsonova’s serve to lead 3-0.
Samsonova, who has not played a match on tour since October, struggled with the level of intensity produced by the young Aussie.
But her years of experience took over and she was able to break back, sparking a boost of confidence.
Ultimately, it was a broken racquet string in the eighth game that knocked Jones’s focus and allowed Samsonova to serve for the opening set.
Luidmila Samsonova’s powerful forehand was tough to compete with. (AAP: Zain Mohammed)
The second set was much shorter, with Samsonova gaining complete control of the match with her powerful forehand.
Jones showed a spark of intensity towards the end of the second set but handed the number 10 seed the victory with a double fault.
Speaking on court post-match, Samsonova offered words of encouragement to her opponent, whose career has arguably only just begun.
“It’s the first match of the year so it’s tough for everyone, so it’s amazing to stand here,” she said.
“I knew she [Jones] had nothing to lose and she’s playing at home, so it was going to be tough, so I’m really proud that I played better and better during the match.
“She [Jones] showed great tennis and all she needs to do is work hard.”
Compatriot Olivia Gadecki, ranked 52 in the world, will meet 18-year-old number nine Mirra Andreeva on Wednesday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Kimberly Birrell will face world number three Amanda Anisimova on Wednesday night on Pat Rafter Arena.
For Jones, the summer of tennis is not over yet, as she has already been awarded a main-draw wildcard for the 2026 Australian Open.
Today’s match, where she showed real promise in the opening set, will be good preparation to get used to playing at a higher level among the world’s best.
ABC Sport will have live coverage of the Australian Open from January 18.