'Beautiful' act stuns commentator after Aussie's final

Opponents Renata Jamrichova and Emerson Jones shared a heartwarming moment of sportsmanship after playing out the Australian Open junior girls’ final on Rod Laver Arena.

Sixteen-year-old Slovakian Jamrichova and 15-year-old Australian Jones went head-to-head for the junior title on Saturday, with the more experienced Jamrichova triumphing 6-4, 6-1.

As Jamrichova sealed her maiden junior grand slam, she appeared stunned by her achievement.

Renata Jamrichova consoled opponent Emerson Jones after settling the junior girls’ championship at the Australian Open.

A few tears rolled down her cheeks as she approached her coach in the stands before she made a beeline for Jones’ players’ bench.

The pair then shared a cuddle as Jamrichova tried to console a disappointed Jones.

“This is just a beautiful moment, isn’t it?,” Jess Webster says in commentary.

“You don’t see this very often and it’s just a beautiful moment for both young ladies.”

Watch the 2024 Australian Open live and exclusive on Nine, 9Now and ad-free on Stan Sport

Jones broke Jamrichova early in the opening set to shoot out to a 3-0 lead before being reeled in by the top seed.

Jamrichova then dominated the second set as Jones’ serve dropped off and her number of unforced errors climbed.

Jones is the first Australian junior to contest the girls’ singles final at their home slam in 28 years.

Speaking to Stan’s Grand Slam Daily ahead of the final, former world No.5 Daniela Hantuchova encouraged Jones to use the occasion to promote herself, no matter the result.

“I don’t think there should be any pressure [on Jones], this is the time to enjoy it,” she said.

“Let’s not forget at the other end of the court is the No.1 seed [in Jamrichova].

“It’s one of those finals where all the pressure is on her [opponent], and also, let’s not forget that this is such a great occasion to show off your best tennis because all the agents are looking [and] this is the time that you maybe start to sign a few little contracts.

“Everyone from now on starts to keep an eye on you.”