Tennis-Alcaraz hits his stride to sink gutsy Gasquet at Australian Open

Tennis - Australian Open - Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia - January 16, 2024 Spain's Carlos Alcaraz reacts after winning his first round match against France's Richard Gasquet REUTERS/Ciro De Luca

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - 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.