Alcaraz decrypts a tough Hanfmann to stay intact

Raquel Bermúdez Rodríguez | 21 Jan 2026 | 06.59

Alcaraz deciphers tough Hanfmann to remain undefeated at the Australian Open 2026. Photo: Getty

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Carlos Alcaraz added another important victory at the 2026 Australian Open to advance to the third round of the first Grand Slam of the season. With a score of 7-6(4), 6-3, 6-2, the world number one prevailed against a resilient Yannick Hanfmann in 2 hours and 44 minutes of play.

Despite some windy conditions, the radiant sun of Melbourne foreshadowed the intense day ahead on the fourth day of the season's first Grand Slam. The challenges for Alcaraz began almost from the first exchange. Despite a few errors from Hanfmann, the German was able to be super aggressive on return to secure the first break of the match, warning Carlitos about the opponent he was facing.

The immediate break back came from a much more patient Alcaraz from the baseline, finding winners to significantly improve his feelings on the Rod Laver Arena court. Well into the first hour of the match, the Spanish and the German found themselves in a tiebreak. Although the German displayed extraordinary tennis, the world number one managed to decipher it to claim the first set.

Alcaraz raises the level against a great Hanfmann

In a much faster manner, the Spanish player accelerated considerably, notably enhancing his efficiency on break points and becoming strong on serve, while not forgetting a few entertaining points from both sides. Forehand errors condemned a struggling Hanfmann who was not as solid from the back of the court as before.

These feelings were confirmed in the moments following the second set when the German received treatment from the physio on court, focusing all his efforts on his service game, trying to earn as many free points as possible with his serve, although Alcaraz did not allow it.

No matter how hard he tried, it seemed that the match already had a winner. Even so, nerves got the better of Carlitos when closing out the match. Despite three uncharacteristic errors in his game, the Spanish player managed to reset his mind and seal the match without complications, securing his spot in the third round of the 2026 Australian Open.