Day 2 at the Australian Open delivered fireworks early, as Carlos Alcaraz steamrolled Australian Adam Walton 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 to book his spot in the second round. The 20-year-old superstar, seeking to complete a career Grand Slam, produced a performance laced with flair and firepower under the Melbourne night sky.
Walton, a late bloomer at 24 who grinded through qualifiers, entered the fray with nothing to lose and a raucous home support. He traded blows gamely in the early stages, but Alcaraz’s variety – drop shots, slice backhands, and thunderous forehands – overwhelmed the local.
A pivotal break at 4-3 in the opener shifted momentum irreversibly. Alcaraz then elevated, winning 70% of second-serve points and conceding just 19 unforced errors. Walton, visibly frustrated, netted crucial shots in the decider, allowing Alcaraz to close out in style.
‘I’m happy with the level. Now to build on it,’ said the Spaniard, eyeing a favorable draw. Griekspoor awaits, but bigger tests loom against the likes of Medvedev or Rublev. Djokovic’s presence adds spice, yet Alcaraz’s injury-free preparation positions him as co-favorite.
This result extends Alcaraz’s perfect 8-0 record in major openers since turning pro. For Walton, it’s valuable exposure, boosting his ranking significantly. As the tournament unfolds amid perfect weather, Alcaraz’s demolition job sets the tone: he’s here to win, not just compete.