World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz had a strong start at the Australian Open, defeating Adam Walton, ranked in the top 75, with a score of 6-3, 7-6, 6-2 in the first round.
This match was Alcaraz’s first on the ATP Tour without his long-time coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero. He showed great focus at Rod Laver Arena, successfully managing a challenging opponent.
Alcaraz Starts Strong
Alcaraz opened with solid serving, limiting Walton’s chances in his service games. The beginning of the first set was close; Walton managed to land all 17 of his first serves and even saved a breakpoint.
Once Walton began to struggle, Alcaraz took advantage of his second serves and quickly closed out the first set. The second set was more competitive, with Walton gaining an early break. However, Alcaraz quickly broke back in the next game.
Walton worked hard to take the set to a tiebreak but made critical errors, including double faults. After winning the tiebreak, Alcaraz effectively secured the match, knowing he has never lost after winning the first two sets in his career. He finished strongly in the third set to complete the win.
Alcaraz’s Thoughts on the Match
In a post-match interview with Eurosport, Alcaraz noted that first matches at Grand Slams can be difficult, but he was pleased with how he played:
“The truth is that the first match is never simple. Opening matches at Grand Slams are never easy. It’s the first of the season, my first official match of the year… I think today was a match with ups and downs as well… But overall, it was very good. Three sets, time on court, getting the competitive rhythm back again. I’m really happy to move on and get my first win of the season.”
There was much discussion during the offseason about Alcaraz parting ways with Ferrero after a successful year. However, this first match suggests he is continuing to progress, as he aims for a historic Career Grand Slam at the Australian Open.
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