Carlos Alcaraz Wins His First Match at the Australian Open

Published on January 19, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Carlos Alcaraz celebrates a point during his first-round match at the Australian Open 2026.

Carlos Alcaraz Wins His First Match at the Australian Open

The Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz began his journey in the first Grand Slam of the year with a three-set victory over Australian Adam Walton. The score was 6-3, 7-6(2), and 6-2. Although the match had phases of varying levels, the Manchegan tennis player managed to resolve it and advance. 🎾

Analysis of a Match with Contrasts

The development of the match showed an Alcaraz with evident ups and downs. After a controlled first set, the second was decided in a tie-break that the Spaniard dominated with authority. This moment was key to imposing his rhythm in the third set and closing the match with more ease.

Key Points of the Match:
  • First set won with solid play from the baseline.
  • Very close second set decided in the tie-break, where Alcaraz was much superior.
  • Third set with clear dominance, taking advantage of the psychological momentum gained.
These first matches in a major tournament are always a test. They help find the best form.

The Process of Adapting the Game to the Tour

Carlos Alcaraz spoke after the match about the need to adjust his preparation to the demands of the long season. He emphasized that each opponent poses a different challenge and that he must improve constantly to stay among the best.

Immediate Goals in Melbourne:
  • Fine-tune technical and tactical details match by match.
  • Gain confidence and competition rhythm on hard courts.
  • Extend his stay in the tournament as long as possible.

Looking Towards Upcoming Challenges

For Alcaraz, adapting means not allowing the opponent to impose their conditions, something Walton tried unsuccessfully at the decisive moment. The tennis player acknowledges that he needs to perfect both his physical condition and mental strength to face the challenges ahead during the year. The initial victory is a first positive step on that path. 💪