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Signs are good for fully fit Demon By Marc McGowan Australia’s leading title hope Alex de Minaur says he feels physically the best he has been in a long time after moving into the second round without dropping a set.
De Minaur did not have it all his own way against Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, but emerged a 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 victor in what was always going to be a tricky contest.
Alex de Minaur reacts after winning a point against Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands. Credit: AP
A serious hip injury that the world No.8 suffered at Wimbledon meant he was physically compromised for the rest of a year when he reached three grand slam quarter-finals.
“The body feels great. It’s been a long time since it’s felt this good,” de Minaur said. “I’m just more than anything, relieved. I’m happy to move, I’m happy to slide around court [and] burn my shoes – it’s a good sign, that one.“
De Minaur hit 13 aces and dropped serve only once. He staved off van de Zandschulp’s two set points in the second set to enjoy a clean passage to the second round, where he will face American qualifier Tristan Boyer. Boyer won a five-set battle over Federico Coria.
“What gives me a sense of calm is knowing the amount of work I’ve put in behind the scenes, [and] knowing I’ve done everything in my power to be ready,” de Minaur said.
“As I said before, I know as soon as I walk on this court, every single one of you guys has my back, so I’m going to do my best from the very first point to the last.”
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Sorry night for Aussie hopeful, teen causes upset Australian Olivia Gadecki’s first round was over so quickly she barely had time to soak up the atmosphere on Rod Laver Arena.
She was dumped out of the tournament by former world No.9 Veronika Kudermetova 6-1, 6-1 in a match that lasted 56 minutes.
Gadecki’s had a tough s
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