World number one Carlos Alcaraz endured a tough examination before defeating Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann 7-6 (7/4), 6-3, 6-2 to reach the third round of the Australian Open.
The six-time Grand Slam champion needed 78 minutes to claim a gripping opening set on Rod Laver Arena before asserting control. Hanfmann pushed Alcaraz early, breaking serve and forcing a tiebreak, but the Spaniard raised his level thereafter.
Alcaraz, chasing a career Grand Slam, found his rhythm in the latter stages as Hanfmann faded physically, sealing victory with authority to stay on course in Melbourne.