Hunter sweeps into Australian Open second round

Australia's world No.1 doubles star built on her momentum from qualifying with a 6-4 6-3 first-round victory over former French Open finalist Sara Errani on Monday.

Incredibly, the watershed win comes in her 10th Open campaign since debuting in 2012 as a teenager.

The 29-year-old has been handed wildcards for every one of her previous nine tilts, including main-draw first-round defeats in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2022 and 2023.

Hunter's only other Open win was in qualifying four years ago.

"It means everything," she said after finally breaking through.

"I grew up watching the Australian Open and then dreaming of playing here and then I've had a lot of opportunities.

"I'm a little bit older, so I've played a few main draws and never got the win.

"So to come through qualifying and to win my first round and kind of waiting ... it's insane."

Growing in belief and stature, the 2024 version of Hunter is a different beast to past years.

She is flying after becoming Australia's first top-ranked women's doubles ace since Samantha Stosur in 2006 and emerging as a linchpin for the nation's Billie Jean King Cup and United Cup teams over the past two years.

Now the crafty left-hander is intent on forging a successful singles career.

"I've got a big schedule now," Hunter said.

"Singles, doubles and mixed, so bring it on."

Without the leg-up of a wildcard for the first time at her home grand slam, Hunter is the first Australian to progress to the women's second round.

She will play either Russian 17th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova or German Laura Siegemund next for a place in the third round of a singles major for the first time.

While Hunter marched on, Australian wildcard Taylah Preston crashed out with a 6-2 6-2 loss to Ukraine's 19th seed Elina Svitolina.

Another nine Australians, including men's 10th seed Alex de Minaur, are in day-two action at Melbourne Park.

Australian Associated Press