ALCARAZ REVEALS SECRET

World No. 3 credits hard work after pulling off extraordinary shots in opening victory

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Carlos Alcaraz was impressed with his level early in his bid to complete a career Grand Slam, after an imperfect but entertaining 6-1, 7-5, 6-1 win over Kazakh Alexander Shevchenko to ease into the Australian Open second round on Jan 13.

Four-time Major champion Alcaraz is targeting his maiden trophy at Melbourne Park to become the youngest man to capture all four Grand Slam titles and the 21-year-old went all guns blazing for an emphatic victory after a nervy opening game.

A mid-match dip notwithstanding, the world No. 3 Spaniard pulled off extraordinary shots which prompted retired Australian player John Millman to ask him after the contest what the secret to being such a "freak" was.

"I always say that it's hard work," a beaming Alcaraz said.

"I try to bring the best of me every day. That's the secret. Every day, I try to be a better person and better player."

The third seed, still fine-tuning a new service motion that he adopted in the off-season, fended off a break point and then broke in the third game to take full control of the opening set, which he wrapped up in double-quick time.

"I think I played a great level," Alcaraz, who did not contest any of the tune-up tournaments, told reporters later.