Carlos Alcaraz has made a hot start to the Australian Open as the Spanish star attempts to improve on his poor record at Melbourne Park.
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Alcaraz, who missed last year's season-opening grand slam through injury, only got better as his first-round match went on, defeating French veteran Richard Gasquet 7-6 (7-5) 6-1 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday night.
Gasquet started well in his 17th appearance at the Australian Open but was unable to maintain the high standard set by his opponent 17 years his junior.
"It's always great to play here in Australia. This is my third time that I played here," Alcaraz said.
The second seed's best result at Melbourne Park is a third-round exit in 2022.
Alcaraz has reached at the least the semi finals in all of the other three majors.
"I didn't have a good run the years that I played here but I enjoy a lot," the 20-year-old said.
"I missed last year and today I felt really well, playing here.
"I think I enjoyed playing in front of all of you and trying to be better.
"In the first set I struggled a little bit with his game and Richard is playing great as well
"But every set I've been playing better and better in the end I think I played quite a good level."
The two-time major winner will face Lorenzo Sonego in the second round.
The Italian came back from a first set loss to beat Briton Dan Evans 4-6 7-6 (8) 6-2 7-6 (4).
Australian Associated Press
