World number 2 Carlos Alcaraz kicks off his Australian campaign against 37-year-old French veteran Richard Gasquet. It's an interesting match-up, as Gasquet is a technically gifted player.
The 2 players have already faced each other in the 2021 ATP final in Umag, which the Murcian won quite easily 6-2, 6-2. A memorable encounter for Carlitos, as it was his 1st ATP final.
For Gasquet, the start of the season is less encouraging, as he has dropped out of the Top 100; he will, however, retain his great experience of the Australian tournament, where he has competed on numerous occasions. It was also in Auckland that the Frenchman won his 16th title (victory over Cameron Norrie in January 2023). For Carlitos, the situation is interesting. He's back on the pitch fresh and keen to have a great 2024 season. What's more, having missed last year's Australian Open through injury, he'll be keen to get off to a good start. What's more, the 2 opponents are both fans of the beautiful game, so we're sure to see a fine match.
Vamos Carlitos!
Michel
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