Alcaraz hits his stride to sink gutsy Gasquet at Australian Open

Carlos Alcaraz made a winning return to the Australian Open on Tuesday but the Spanish second seed faced some early resistance from French veteran Richard Gasquet before cruising to a 7-6(5) 6-1 6-2 victory in the opening round.

The muscular 20-year-old, who skipped last year’s tournament with a right leg issue, appeared overly exuberant at times as he sought quick progress at Melbourne Park but composed himself to grind down his seasoned opponent and blow him away.

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“It’s always great to play here in Australia, it’s the third time that I’m playing here,” said Alcaraz, who will meet Italian Lorenzo Sonego in the second round.