Top Aussie hope Alex de Minaur delivers promising pre-Open win against Carlos Alcaraz
Alex de Minuar has dismissed any lingering injury concerns as he survived a late scare to defeat Carlos Alcaraz on Rod Laver Arena.
The world No.3 Spaniard took on the top ranked Aussie in an exhibition match ahead of the Australian Open, with both players showcasing why they are a threat for the title.
Alcaraz opened the match by breaking de Minaur's serve, but the quick feet and defensive power of his rival saw him fall short 6-4 in the first set.
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The electric noise of a passionate home crowd was not enough to throw the Spaniard off his path in the second set, surging into control to level the match at 1-1.
The match format saw the pair enter a 10-point tiebreak as de Minaur unveiled his masterclass comeback plan.
Alex de Minaur of Australia plays a backhand in his charity match against Carlos Alcaraz of Spain. Getty
Surging to a 4-0 lead, the Demon did not look back as Alcaraz seemingly struggled to find the answer to deny his opponent points.
Running away with the match, de Minaur celebrated with the home crowd and sealed the win at 7-5, 4-6, (10-5).
The victory will not only act as a significant confidence boost for de Minaur but also promising evidence of the performances fans can expect to see in the coming weeks.
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Having been derailed by injury concerns in his previous grand slam quests, the 25-year-old looks primed to make waves at the Australian Open.
Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Alex de Minaur of Australia. Getty
But his chances at the title are one that he is not afraid of acknowledging.
"The sky is the limit," he said post-match.
"I'm pushing myself every day, and hopefully, I can keep this momentum going.
"I'm very excited by what is going to come over the next few weeks.
"It's great to be back here... it was a great practice session," de Minaur laughed.
The Australian Open draw takes place on Thursday at 2.30pm AEDT.
