15th seed Emma Navarro suffered a shock loss in the first round of the Australian Open, as she lost in three sets to world number 50 Magda Linette. The loss is a continuation of the poor form shown at the end of last year, when she suffered two defeats in a row.

The American had started the game well, claiming the first set 6-3. But she let her opponent back into the game with several unforced errors.

The match eventually ended with Linette claiming the final two sets, and earning a 6-3, 3-6, 3-6 win. The defeat will see Navarro slip further down the rankings after falling out of the top 10 last year.

For competing in the first round of the tournament, Navarro will net prize money of $150,000 (£74.8k). In comparison, Linetta will now earn a minimum $225,000 (£112.3k) for making it to the second round.

The winner of the Grand Slam will be awarded record prize money of $4.15m (£2m). The runner-up will get $2.15m (£1m).

It's not likely to be money motivating Navarro, with the former US Open semi-finalist coming from a wealthy background. The 24-year-old is the daughter of billionaire Ben Navarro, who made his money in finance.

He also owns two tennis tournaments - the Charleston Open and the Cincinnati Open. Navarro's grandfather, Frank Navarro, was also a famous American Football player.

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Before the clash against Linette, Navaro outlined the challenge of last year. "Without a doubt, 2025 was full of ups and downs," she said.

"It's often said that the second season as a professional is the hardest, and perhaps that was somewhat the case for me.

"I have to remind myself not to overlook or underestimate the challenge that all of this entails; it's really tough, and many of the girls are really good.

"That's how professional sports are, and that's how the circuit is... it's not easy, there's a lot of travel, there's pressure, there are expectations, you're far from your family. I'm always learning and I feel like the level keeps rising."

Linette will go on to play another American in Ann Li in the second round of the Australian Open, with the match scheduled to take place on Wednesday.