World number one Carlos Alcaraz began his Australian Open campaign with a confident straight-sets win, defeating home favourite Adam Walton 6–3, 7–6(2), 6–2 to reach the second round.
Fast Start in Melbourne
Alcaraz set the tone early at Rod Laver Arena, breaking serve for a 5–3 lead before closing out the opening set with authority.
“I’m really happy to step on the court for the first time this season,” Alcaraz said. “It couldn’t be better than here at Rod Laver Arena.”
Walton Pushes Back
Walton showed resilience, forcing the second set into a tiebreak after a brief dip in Alcaraz’s consistency. The Spaniard responded strongly, racing through the breaker 7–2.
“Adam showed a great level,” Alcaraz said. “Long rallies, solid from the baseline — his flat ball was difficult.”
Momentum Sealed
Alcaraz carried his momentum into the third set, breaking early and cruising to victory. He will now face Yannick Hanfmann in the second round.
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