Live Commentary: Australian Open day one - as it happened

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Australian Open day one - as it happened
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Marcos Baghdatis booked his spot in the next round of the Australian Open with a close-fought victory over Albert Ramos on day one.

There was also good news for Heather Watson, with Britain’s number one recovering from a set down to overcome Alexandra Cadantu in the opening round.

Favourites Novak Djokovic, Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic had no such trouble as they booked their spot in round two with comfortable wins.

However, number eleven seed Juan Monaco was surprising beaten by the Russian Andrey Kuznetsov, with the former suffering with a back injury throughout the encounter.

Read how it all unfolded in Sports Mole’s minute-by-minute live commentary of the action below.

1.45pmThat concludes our coverage on day one, thanks for joining me. Make sure you return at midnight as Sports Mole will have live coverage of first round matches involving Andy Murray and Roger Federer, among others.
1.44pmGAME, SET AND MATCH Baghdatis [0]6-7 7-6[4] 6-4 3-6 6-3 Ramos Baghdatis finally wins, and with a volley. An amazing last point sees both players give it their all but Baghdatis has just a little more and finishes with an easy volley.
1.42pmThis time he stays back and Ramos again hits a tired forehand into the net. Baghdatis hits a good serve and follows it up with a big forehand, match point...
1.41pmAnother attempt of serve-volley by Baghdatis and another miss! Break point...
1.41pmRamos somehow hits another big forehand which Baghdatis can't return, he follows it up with one into the net though. 30-30...
1.40pmBaghdatis tries to serve-volley but badly messes up the volley and it drops into the net, 15-15...
1.40pmA tired Ramos wearily hits a backhand into the net. 15-0..
1.39pmRamos again with a big serve and huge forehand. Baghdatis can't reach a second forehand and Ramos forces him to serve out the match. 3-5 in the fifth set...
1.38pmWow! Two unbelievable forehands from Ramos bring it back to deuce. Baghdatis looks shocked that his opponent can still produce such hitting.
1.37pmA failed drop-shot brings up match point for Baghdatis...
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 *2-5 BaghdatisBaghdatis puts the pressure straight back on the Spaniard with a love service game. Ramos is unable to cope with Baghdatis' big hitting and wearily puts a backhand into the net.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 2-4* BaghdatisRamos looks in real pain now, with almost constant cramp in his right leg. Baghdatis tries a drop shot to increase the pain but Ramos makes it and shows there is certainly nothing wrong with his arm, whipping the forehand over the net.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 *1-4 BaghdatisBaghdatis is still able to produce brilliant shots despite doing most of the running. A powerful forehand up the line puts him ahead and he wins the game after another Ramos unforced error.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 1-3* BaghdatisBREAK! Ramos looks drained now. An unforced error off his forehand gives Baghdatis break point and a double fault gives his opponent a 3-1 lead.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 *1-2 BaghdatisBaghdatis is more comfortable on serve this time as both players look tired. The Cypriot is the fresher though, still willing to chase every ball, and forces errors out of Ramos.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 1-1 BaghdatisRamos holds his serve with some strong serving. Baghdatis aids him with two unforced errors on his forehand which go long.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 *0-1 BaghdatisA great cross-court forehand gives Ramos an early advantage but Baghdatis' serve, as so often in this match, gets him out of trouble. Ramos hits a forehand long to give away the game.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 6-3 BaghdatisSET A punishing rally sees Ramos pull a forehand wide and give Baghdatis break point. He hits the return long to go to deuce, before two more unforced errors, one long and one into the net, give Ramos the set!
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 *5-3 BaghdatisBREAK! Ramos finally gets his break! He wins every point on the Baghdatis serve, forcing errors out of the Cypriot. Ramos will now serve for the fourth set...
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 4-3* BaghdatisRamos holds serve easily, going against the recent pattern. Three big serves were followed up by three big forehands, before Baghdatis hit one into the net.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 *3-3 BaghdatisSome pulsating rallies have Baghdatis scrambling all over the court as Ramos tries to hit through him. The Cypriot though, will not be beaten and responds with an ace and a big forehand to hold serve. Ramos has missed way too many break point chances today.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 3-2* BaghdatisBREAK! Ramos breaks Baghdatis and then is immediately broken back! The Cypriot chased down every shot in the final rally and eventually was rewarded, as Ramos volleyed a backhand into the net.
12.35pmGAME, SET AND MATCH Ivanovic 6-2 6-1 Czink Czink forces Ivanovic into deuce but the Serbian ups her game with consecutive forehands down the line to take match point at the third attempt.
Ivanovic 6-2 *5-1 CzinkThe unforced errors are piling up for Czink as she throws caution to the wind now. Ivanovic remains calm to power a return straight at her opponent and force another error. The Serb will now serve for the match.
Ivanovic 6-2 4-1* CzinkIvanovic with another simple service game. She has taken a bit off her first serve in order to get it in, allowing her to dominate off the forehand.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 2-1* BaghdatisBoth men are pushing each other all the way on their serve. Ramos hits a forehand wide, before hitting another long, due to the defensive work of his opponent. He eventually takes the game with a simple volley.
Ivanovic 6-2 3-0* CzinkIvanovic is moving through the gears now. She quickly holds her serve, powering the ball to her opponent's backhand, and puts the pressure back on Czink.
Ramos 7-6[0][4]6-7 4-6 *1-1 BaghdatisBaghdatis again saves break point with a big serve, before a cleverly disguised drop-shot won him the game.
Ivanovic 6-2 2-0 CzinkBREAK! Czink is making more unforced errors now, giving up her serve in the second set. Ivanovic runs hard to play a backhand behind Czink, before great improvisation helps her win an exchange at the net.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 1-0* BaghdatisRamos responds well to losing the third set. His serving has been good all day, and his forehand has matched it. He whips one up the line before an ace, unsuccessfully challenged by Baghdatis, wins the game.
Ivanovic 6-2 CzinkBREAK AND SET! Ivanovic breaks her opponent with a big forehand to take the set. The 25-year-old is hitting her ground strokes really well and looks like she is heading into the second round.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-6 BaghdatisSET Baghdatis holds his serve relatively comfortably to take the set. The Cypriot seems to be improving in this match, getting to his opponents shot that little bit earlier.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 4-5* BaghdatisRamos holds his serve and forces Baghdatis to serve out the third set.
Ivanovic *4-2 CzinkCzink stretches brilliantly to hold her serve after being put under real pressure by Ivanovic. The Serbian is still not fully confident on her own serve though.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 *3-5 BaghdatisBaghdatis incredibly saves three break points, before an ace sets up game point. Ramos can not return his final serve and the Cypriot consolidates his advantage.
11.57amGAME, SET AND MATCH Anderson 3-6 7-6[3] 6-3 6-4 Lorenzi Kevin Anderson beats Paola Lorenzi in four sets after losing the opener.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 3-4* BaghdatisBREAK! Ramos saves break point with a thumping forehand down the line, before hitting an easier one into the middle of the net. Baghdatis makes no mistake this time, hitting a brilliant backhand to edge ahead.
Ivanovic *3-1 CzinkBREAK! Ivanovic's ground strokes are causing problems for Czink but she responds well, hanging in there. The Serbian breaks back though, forcing consecutive errors out of her opponent.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 3-2* BaghdatisRamos has the trainer on to look at his arm. Baghdatis waits patiently for his service game to begin.
Ivanovic 2-1* CzinkBREAK! Consecutive double-faults allow Czink to steal the break back. The number 13 seed will not be happy with that game after a solid start.
Ivanovic *2-0 CzinkBREAK! Ivanovic is looking in good form, moving well and finding some excellent angles.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 3-2* BaghdatisThis tight match continues on serve in the third set. Ramos is mixing up his game well but Baghdatis is working hard, chasing down every ball.
Ivanovic 1-0 CzinkThe number seed wins her opening service game, serving well and benefiting from her opponent's unforced errors.
11.33amAna Ivanovic and Melinda Czink are about to get underway on Rod Laver arena in the final match of the day.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 *1-1 BaghdatisBaghdatis levels the match again with a good forehand down the line. This one could go either way.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 1-0* BaghdatisRamos responds well to losing the second set. Some good serving and and big forehands ensures he holds to love.
Ramos 7-6[0] [4]6-7 BaghdatisSET! Marcos Baghdatis levels up his match with Albert Ramos, winning a second set tie-break. A poor Ramos forehand allows the Cypriot to take the set.
11.17amGAMES SET AND MATCH Tipsarevic 7-6[4] 7-5 6-3 Hewitt A gruelling rally sees Hewitt put a forehand wide, before Tipsarevic moves in whips a backhand on to the line. Tipsarevic wins as another Hewitt backhand goes wide. A great effort from Hewitt but in the end Tipsarevic had too much for his opponent.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 3-5* TipsarevicBREAK! Tipsarevic will now serve for the match. Hewitt's resistance looks to be broken as a tough volley drops long.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 *3-4 TipsarevicTipsarevic races through his service game to put the pressure back on Hewitt. Some big serves and some big forehands prove to much for the Australian.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 3-3* TipsarevicHewitt produces some good tennis to level it up. He pushes Tipsarevic into a corner before moving in to dispatch the volley. A serve out wide then forces the Serbian to hit it long. It's not over just yet.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 *2-3 TipsarevicBREAK!There is fight in Hewitt yet! Tipsarevic's winners have deserted him, as has his luck. A net chord brings him in and Hewitt duly produces a backhand lob to set up a winner.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 1-3* TipsarevicHewitt is on the board in the third set. He works hard to force errors out of Tipsarevic and a backhand into the net seals the game.
10.49amSET! On court 15 Radek Stepanek has taken his match against Viktor Troicki into a final set. Troicki was two sets up but now has a fight on his hands.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 *0-3 TipsarevicThe confidence is flowing through Tipsarevic now. Backhands are flying past Hewitt regularity, and there is even a top-spin lob to add insult to injury.
10.45amGAME, SET AND MATCH Ito 6-4 6-4 3-6 0-6 7-5 Millman It wasn't to be a fairytale finish for young John Millman. After fighting back from two sets down, he lost the final set 7-5 in an entertaining match.
Hewitt[4]6-7 5-7 0-2* TipsarevicBREAK! Hewitt is looking tired now. A double-fault gives Tipsarevic break point which he takes with a fantastic backhand up the line. It's looking ominous for Hewitt.
10.40amGAME, SET AND MATCH Bautista Agut 6-0 2-6 6-4 3-6 6-1 Fognini A rollercoaster match on court five was won by Spaniard Bautista Agut in five sets. He will now face Jurgen Melzer in the second round.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 *0-1 TipsarevicTipsarevic hits a couple of very good forehands, before two unforced errors. A superb backhand then passes Hewitt at the net before the Australian misses himself. Hewitt is hanging in there but if Tipsarevic can find some consistency, this could be over quickly.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-7 TipsarevicBREAK AND SET! Hewitt saves a set point with a fantastic backhand. Tipsarevic then returns a serve long, before an unbelievable backhand pass takes it back to deuce. The Serbian follows it up with a massive forehand and duly takes the second set with a third winner in a row. It will take a lot for Hewitt to stay in the tournament now.
10.24amGAME, SET AND MATCH Querry [2]6-7 6-4 6-2 6-4 Munoz-De La Nava The big-serving American Sam Querry comes from a set down to beat the Spanish qualifier.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *5-6 TipsarevicThis match has a different look about it now. Tipsarevic is just one game away from a two-set lead, having increased pressure on Hewitt. Hewitt will serve to stay in the set...
Ito 6-4 6-4 3-6 0-6 4-3* MillmanThe young Australian is hanging in there in the final set, as the Japanese qualifier ups his game.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-5* TipsarevicBREAK! The rallies are becoming punishing now, Hewitt slices a backhand wide, before a stunning cross-court shot takes us into deuce. The Australian volleys into the net, and then loses a challenge, as well as his serve.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *5-4 TipsarevicTipsarevic produces some powerful serving, holding to love, and forces Hewitt to serve out this second set.
Hewitt [4]6-7 5-3* TipsarevicTipsarevic produces some good tennis to go ahead in the game but Hewitt, as he often does, exerts pressure at just the right moment, moving in and volleying well. A serve and volley then sets up game point, which he duly takes.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *4-3 TipsarevicTipsarevic misses an easy passing shot by his standards. He responds though, with an ace and a powerful forehand, to win his service game.
Hewitt [4]6-7 4-2 TipsarevicHewitt wins his serve to stay ahead. The Australian produces a nice drop volley, before a cross-court forehand is slapped into the net by Tipsarevic.
9.53amSET! 23-year-old Australian John Millman is delighting the crowd on Court Three. Millman has just taken his match against Tatsuma Ito into a fifth set, after trailing by two sets to love.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *3-2 TipsarevicThe number eight seed consolidates his break to get back to 2-3 in this second set. A few more unforced errors from Hewitt in this game, but he is still in the ascendancy.
Hewitt [4]6-7 3-1 TipsarevicBREAK! Hewitt saves three break points, much to the delight of the crowd, producing some great volleys and clever passing shots. Tipsarevic responds though, and breaks at the fourth time of asking.
9.45amGAME, SET AND MATCH Janowicz 7-5 6-4 6-3 Bolelli Number 24 seed Jerzy Janowicz is comfortably through to the second round, beating Simone Bolelli in straight sets.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *3-0 TipsarevicBREAK! Hewitt breaks again! The Australian is using all his tricks now, taking the pace off the ball and making Tipsarevic hit it long. The Serbian misses then with a routine volley to give the game away.
Hewitt [4]6-7 2-0* TipsarevicHewitt holds his serve comfortably. The veteran champion looks in good shape, chasing down shots and hitting winners of the back foot.
9.35amGAME, SET AND MATCH Pervak 7-5 2-6 6-4 Barthel Another upset on day one as women's number 32 seed Mona Barthel loses an engaging three-set match to 21-year-old Ksenia Pervak of Kazakhstan.
Hewitt [4]6-7 *1-0 TipsarevicBREAK! Hewitt breaks in the first game of the second set! The rallies are getting longer now and Hewitt won't mind that. The home favourite tracks down two big backhands before a forehand of his own catches the line to break Tipsarevic.
9.29amGAME, SET AND MATCH Lacko 6-2 6-4 7-6[3] Muller Lacko comes through in the tie-breaker to beat Gilles Muller in straight sets.
9.24amGAME, SET AND MATCH Ferrer 6-3 6-4 6-2 Rochus Rochus throws his racket at the ball in despair. Ferrer comfortably closes out the match with some good serving, and ominously for his rivals, looked better and better as it continued.
Hewitt [4]6-7 TipsarevicSET! Hewitt correctly challenges another call before telling the umpire exactly what he thinks. Tipsarevic has just a little too much for him though and takes the opening set.
Ferrer 6-3 6-2 *5-2 RochusBREAK! A second break for Ferrer and this match is all but over. The number four seed will serve for the match.
Hewitt 6-6 [2-4] TipsarevicTipsarevic races into a 4-0 lead in the tie-break but Hewitt gets two points back before the change of sides.
Ferrer 6-3 6-4 *3-2 RochusBREAK! Ferrer gets the break with some high pressure tennis, and you would think Rochus has little left to offer in this match.
Hewitt 6-6 TipsarevicTipsarevic fights back from 0-30, with Hewitt playing some excellent tennis. Tipsarevic is staying with him though and we move into a tie-break.
Ferrer 6-3 6-4 2-2* RochusStill on serve in this match. Ferrer seems happy to stay like this for the moment but as we move towards the business end of the set, he will surely step it up again.
Hewitt 6-5* TipsarevicTipsarevic fights back from 40-15, producing some stunning forehands and a great lob. Hewitt then correctly challenges a wide call, which fires him up to win the game.
Ferrer 6-3 6-4 1-1* RochusThe third set begins on serve, but Ferrer is clearly in the driving seat. Can Rochus get anything from this match now?
Hewitt 5-5 TipsarevicHome favourite Leyton Hewitt is having to work hard here. Bouyed by the crowd, the former world number one is sticking with the number eight seed.
8.56amGAME, SET AND MATCH Chan 6-1 1-6 6-1 Hantuchova Yung-Jan Chan upsets the odds to beat Daniela Hantuchova in three.
Ferrer 6-3 6-4 RochusSET! Rochus seems to run out of ideas as Ferrer chases down a couple of drop shots, before powering a forehand up the line to produce set point. The Belgian can not return the final serve and Ferrer leads by two sets to love.
Ferrer 6-3 *5-4 RochusBREAK! Could be a pivotal point in the match, as the tennis between these two starts to move up a gear. Unfortunately for Rochus, Ferrer just has that little more in the longer rallies and will serve for the set.
Ferrer 6-3 4-4* RochusRochus looks a lot more confident now, hitting his shots closer to the lines and with more conviction. He can't shake off Ferrer though, who recovers from 15-30 to level the set.
Ferrer 6-3 *3-4 RochusBoth men miss chances to win the set. Ferrer had two break points before allowing Rochus back to deuce, and eventually, into a second set lead.
8.38amGAME, SET AND MATCH Watson 2-6 6-3 6-2 Cadantu Britain's Heather Watson is through to the second round! Watson took an injury break after losing the first set, but came back strongly to win in three.
Ferrer 6-3 3-3* RochusBREAK! Well, it seems there is life left in the Belgian just yet. Rochus works incredibly hard, varying his shot selection excellently, to break back against Ferrer.
8.33amGAME, SET AND MATCH Kuznetsov 7-6[3] 6-1 6-1 Monaco An upset on day one as the number 11 seed Juan Monaco is dumped out in straight sets by Russian youngster Andrey Kuznetsov.
Ferrer 6-3 *3-2 RochusRochus holds serve but things are starting to look ominous now. Two sloppy forehands from Ferrer keep the Belgian in this second set...just.
8.28amSET Slovakian Lukas Lacko takes the second set against Gilles Muller to lead 6-2 6-4.
Ferrer 6-3 3-1* RochusRochus begins the game well, winning a couple of long rallies but it is Ferrer who comes out on top, punishing Rochus with ground strokes that hit every corner.
Ferrer 6-3 *2-1 RochusBREAK! Ferrer turns up the pressure on Rochus, opening up two break opportunities. Rochus saves the first with a good forehand, before chasing the ball all over the court, only to lose his serve on the second.
8.18amGAME, SET AND MATCH Lopez 6-3 6-2 6-4 Brugues-Davi Felciano Lopez comes through comfortably in straight sets against the Spanish qualifier.
Ferrer 6-3 1-1* RochusThe number four seed looks comfortable again, playing the ball deep to Rochus' backhand. These long rallies will favour Ferrer you'd think, as he holds to love.
Ferrer 6-3 *0-1 RochusRochus comes back from losing the first set to hold to love. Ferrer had no answer to his accurate serving and confident forehand.
Ferrer 6-3 RochusSET Ferrer comfortably holds serve to take the first set. The final forehand was close to the line but no challenge came from Rochus.
8.07amSET Watson 2-6 6-3 Caduntu Heather Watson has recovered from her injury break to win the second set against Caduntu.
Ferrer 5-3 RochusBREAK! Ferrer breaks back immediately, winning a punishing rally as Rochus drops the ball into the net. The Spaniard will serve for the set.
8.04amThanks Matt. Daniel here to take you through some big games as we head towards the end of day one at the Australian Open.
8.02amRight, that's all from me. Daniel Cross will be guiding you through the rest of the action. I'm back at midnight! Enjoy the tennis!
Ferrer 4-3* RochusBREAK! Well, that was a Ferrer-like game from Rochus. He worked the Spaniard all over the court and has broken back! It's not over yet, this set.
Ferrer *4-2 RochusRochus does well to hold after a couple of deuces, but gruelling service games like that will start to take it out of him I suspect.
7.58amHeather Watson, who is a set down to Calantu of Romania, is suffering from a stomach bug and had to take a medical time out. It doesn't bode well for her.
Ferrer 4-1* RochusRochus does have a powerful forehand but Ferrer eats up the court on defence and is so good at forcing errors. He wins his next service game to love in a flash and is closing in on the first set.
Ferrer *3-1 RochusBREAK! Rochus is being sent to all four corners here by a sprightly and tactically excellent Ferrer. He gets two break points and on the second one Rochus goes long after a brutal rally to give Ferrer the advantage.
Ferrer 2-1* RochusFantastic from Ferrer as he first serves wide to open the court for a pass before using every inch of his side to whip one round the corner and it's a comfortable hold.
Ferrer *1-1 RochusFerrer displaying his trademark baseline movement to reach every shot from Rochus. He gets it to deuce and Rochus is on the back foot but somehow forces Ferrer into a volley that his the net. Rochus just holds.
Ferrer 1-0* RochusA comfortable-ish opening service game for the number four seed, who should be winning this comfortably.
7.36amLet's get straight to David Ferrer vs. Olivier Rochus, which has just got underway.
7.32amGAME, SET AND MATCH Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] 6-3 Ebden For the second year running Ebden goes out after being two sets up. A really good match full of errors and drama.
7.30amBoth men pull of huge shots down the line as if from nowhere. First Youzhny reaches to fire just over the net and then Ebden pulls out a monster backhand down the same line.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] *5-3 EbdenEbdon saves a match point then fires a ferocious forehand down the line that Youzhny can only return into the net. The Russian will serve for the match now, Ebden did his bit.
7.26amMATCH POINT YOUZHNY
7.24amAn obscene amount of unforced errors in this one. Youzhny has 65 and Ebden 54.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] 5-2* EbdenA strong service game from Youzhny ends with the Russian dominating a point at the net and moving to withing one game of victory.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] *4-2 EbdenAnother good serve and volley saves the first of two break points and the second disappears thanks to his presence at the front of the court, with Youzhny hitting the net. A good hold after it looked as though Youzhny had it wrapped up.
7.14amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Cibulkova 3-6 6-0 6-1 Barty
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] 4-1* EbdenEbden plants a slice into the net and then a return has the same effect. Youzhny's experience is shining through now.
7.11amAn excellent deep serve forces Ebden's return into the net. Good from the Russian.
7.11amBreak point Ebden! He's showing some fight here!
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] *3-1 EbdenBREAK! A break to love for Youzhny, and Ebden is not winning many points here. I reckon that's that.
7.05amSET! Watson 2-6 Cadantu Not a good start at all for Heather and she has a lot of work to do now.
7.04amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Bartoli 6-2 6-4 Medina Garrigues
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] 2-1* EbdenThere's a definite feel of inevitability here now. Ebden looks like he feels it as he just gave up a Youzhny service game to love without much of a fight. Interestingly, Ebden has converted just four of 17 break points, while Youzhny has five from eight. That says a lot.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] *1-1 EbdenAfter a series of deuces Ebden wraps up the game with a classic serve and volley. The wide serve opened up the court for the volley and it's entirely level now.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] 1-0* EbdenSo Youzhny held his serve first up and now it's deuce on Ebden's. He'll have to fight for this.
6.55amBrilliant, thanks Michael. To me this looks like it can only go one way. You can't blow match points if you're looking for a scalp...
6.52pmWith that, I bid you farewell for the morning. Matt will be taking you through until 8am. So long folks!
6.48pmSET! Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 7-6[4] Ebden He does and the 23rd seed takes it to a deciding set. All is not lost for the Aussie, but typically from this position it's the more experienced that shine through. We'll see...
6.47pmA big forehand smash from Youzhny sets up a set point. It was a terrific backhand into the corner that had Ebden on the defensive, and the Russian looks like he can finally level the match at two sets apiece.
6.46pmEbden shows a deft touch at the net to tie things up at 4-4 in the breaker.
6.44pmYouzhny comes to the net but can't cover enough ground as Ebden goes down the line and gets the mini-break back. It's 3-3!
6.40amBREAK! Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 6-6 Ebden The fourth set goes to a tie break! Youzhny has well and truly bottled that one. The Russian has secured the mini-break, though...
6.40amFantastic shot by Ebden sets up break point! Youzhny came into the net, but the Aussie clipped a stunning forehand down the line to outfox the Russian.
6.39amSET POINT! It's advantage Youzhny, but a double fault ensues and we're back to deuce. A bit twitchy, there...
6.38amYouzhny hits a stunning backhand across court! Ebden challenges but to no avail. An ace follows for Youzhny to take it to deuce.
6.37amWOW! Ebden has three break points! Youzhny has dumped into the net and is bottling it!
6.35amThe Russian 23rd seed will now serve for the fourth set. You have to fear for Ebden if he does so, especially given what happened to him last year... does lightening strike twice?
6.34amBREAK! Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *6-5 Ebden The Aussie saves one but goes long with a forehand to give Youzhny the break! Is a fifth now on the cards?
6.33amGreetings once again! We join the game with Ebden 0-40 down having had match point in the revious game. All his hard work could be going down the dunny, as is the parlance in Australia...
6.31amI'm off for another short break, so you lucky people get to read Mr Penkman's updates again for a bit.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 5-5* EbdenThe chance was there but he slices his backhand into the tramlines and Youzhny efficiently levels the set.
6.28amMATCH POINT EBDEN!
6.27amWonderful, wonderful play from Ebden. He works Youzhny all over the court before cutting the pass short with a cross-court drop-volley.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *4-5 EbdenYet another straightforward service game for Ebden and now Youzhny will serve to stay in the match. Now this would be the perfect time to break...
6.24amBRIT WATCH! Heather Watson is on court to face Alaxandra Cadantu. The first of the day from these isles.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 4-4* EbdenVery good tennis from both men here. Youzhny smashes one down the line so Ebden, not to be outdone, follows suit before almost clipping an absolute beauty round the corner but it was inches long. A long return gives Youzhny the game.
6.20amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Kerber 6-2 6-4 Svitolina
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *3-4 EbdenAnother quick service game and break points are becoming few and far between here.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 3-3* EbdenPowerful hitting from Youzhny at the start of his service game to go 30-0 up, but he shows his delicate side with a lovely disguised drop-shot. He wins to love and that was impressive from the Russian.
6.14amKerber was 3-0 down in the second set after winning the first 6-2 against Svitolina. She has since won the last five and is on the verge of reaching the second round.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *2-3 EbdenEbden again wins a service game with ease and he's certainly on top at the moment. Youzhny is hanging on and doing just enough to stay level. The next break is crucial.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 2-2* EbdenReally brave shot from Ebden to take on a running volley and he was rewarded with Youzhny hitting the net. A really well placed passing shot to the corner sets up break point, but he goes wide with the backhand. Youzhny eventually sees out another close service game.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *1-2 EbdenThe Australian is looking the more comfortable on serve at the moment and he wraps up the third game of the set without much trouble.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 1-1* EbdenA good, powerful backhand by Ebden sets up the chance for a break, but Youzhny angles a perfect serve to save it. Ebden nets to give Youzhny a vital hold, and a very close one.
5.54amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Kamke 6-1 6-4 6-1 Cipolla
5.53amThat is a superb point for Ebden. He digs out a volley at his feet before smashing into the open court the shot created.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 *0-1 EbdenGood patience by Ebden at the start of the set. He's happy to match Youzhny's backhand slices until the error comes from the Russian. He finishes off with a good serve and volley. Composed from the Australian.
5.48amYouzhny responded there exactly as the seeded player should. He was largely comfortable in that 6-2 and now must attack the Ebden serve.
5.46amSET! Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 6-2 Ebden The Australian responds to a fortunate lob from Youzhny by smashing a return down the line for 30-30. An excellent volley brings up set point for the Russian and he takes the set with a good forehand winner.
5.43amFine start from Youzhny, with some powerful forehands setting up a placed smash across the court.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 *5-2 EbdenFantastic start to his service game, with a superb baseline drop-shot at 15-0. Youzhny responds with a big forehand down the line but Ebden holds comfortably to force Youzhny to serve for the set.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 5-1* EbdenWithout much drama at all, except a strong piece of net play from Ebden, Youzhny is now one game away from his first set in the match.
5.36amSET! Kerber 6-2 Svitolina. After a decent start, the young Ukrainian was outclassed by the German and has a lot to do to get back into it.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 *4-1 EbdenBetter from Ebden, working the ball around the court nicely. He's helped by a poor Youzhny return blocked into the net and gets his first game of the set with a nice spinning serve down the middle.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 4-0* EbdenAn inconsistent game from Youzhny. He follows a weak forehand that ends in the tramlines with a fantastic dipping backhand pass. However, he does enough to race into a 17-minute 4-0 lead.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 *3-0 EbdenBREAK! It's your classic technique vs. power contest here. It's going ok for technique currently, but we all know how it used to end for Tim Henman! Speaking of Henman, Ebden just tossed up a double fault at deuce. Youzhny takes full advantage and is now three up with a double break.
Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 2-0* EbdenHowever, the Russian looks like he means business now and has raced into a 2-0 lead in the third set. Mind you, he was 4-1 up in the previous one.
5.15amWe'll stick with this potential upset for now. Ebden is 108th in the world, while Youzhny is seeded 23 for this tournament. Excellent stuff.
5.14amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Djokovic 6-2 6-4 7-5 Mathieu It wasn't as straightforward as the first two, but Djokovic is comfortably through against Mathieu.
5.13amSET! Youzhny 4-6 [0]6-7 Ebden
5.11am5-0... Could be the first real upset on the cards.
5.11amEbden has indeed taken Youzhny to a tie-break and he's currently 4-0 up!
5.10amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Verdasco 6-3 3-6 4-6 6-3 6-4 Goffin Big serve to start with from Verdasco and he follows up with an even better ace! Goffin has no response to the Spaniard's power and the winner comes with an unreturnable serve down the line.
5.07amAnother word for Aussie boy Ebden. From 4-1 down in the second he brought it back to 5-5. Currently Youzhny leads 6-5 but Ebden is up 40-15.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 4-5* VerdascoPerfect response from Goffin as he holds to love. He couldn't have done more than that and it's up to Verdasco to win it here.
5.05amAngelique Kerber has arrived on court to face 18-year-old Elina Svitolina and it has just got underway.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 *3-5 VerdascoGreat defence from Goffin to somehow stay in the point but in the end Verdasco's pressure is too much. Verdasco then lets him back in with a poor forearm shot that goes long, and at break point down he turns it on again and wins a long rally. Goffin defends resolutely again but once Verdasco winds up the forearm there was only one result. Just one needed now for the Spaniard.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 3-4* VerdascoHowever, Goffin responds well and finds the corners of the court to move to 40-30 and he somehow stays in the final point to eventually force an error from Verdasco. Good running from the Belgian.
4.54amSublime backhand cross-court return from Verdasco. Truth is it wasn't a bad serve at all.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 *2-4 VerdascoReally good serving from Verdasco, twice forcing Goffin wide to open up the court for the winner. Lovely disguise on the final shot to send Goffin the wrong way for another comfortable service game. Just two more needed now for Verdasco.
4.50amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Berdych 6-3 7-5 6-3 Russell The Czech wraps up a routine opening-round victory.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 2-3* VerdascoAs I say that, Verdasco hits a couple of loose shots - the latter into the net. However, he then fires a bullet of a forearm but it's not enough as Goffin serves right into the corner and the Spaniard cannot return.
4.46amVerdasco is looking fitter and the more threatening. Unless Goffin finds a second-wind this could be over.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 *1-3 VerdascoVerdasco wraps up the game and consolidates his break with a Nadal-esque whipped forehand to the corner.
4.43amOh what a point that is! Both men smashing forehands back at each other and eventually Verdasco gets the winner for 40-0.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 1-2* VerdascoBREAK! That could be the key game for Verdasco. He battled his way to a break of serve and can now reply on his own to see this out. The way this has gone, though, there could still be a twist.
4.38amWith the Djokovic game now looking like there's only one winner, I'm going to follow the remainder of the classic unfolding between Goffin and Verdasco.
4.37amIt looks like all Ebden did by winning that first set was make Youzhny angry. The Russian is currently 4-1 up in the second.
4.35amSET! Djokovic 6-2 6-4 Mathieu Mathieu looks in control of an early rally but again hits the net with a backhand. After that it was plain sailing for Djokovic, wrapping up the set to love.
Djokovic 6-2 *5-4 MathieuHis response is excellent and he ensures Djokovic must serve for the set with a series of accurate serves and good baseline shots.
4.30amMathieu, however, opens with a double-fault.
Djokovic 6-2 5-3* MathieuA big service game at a good time as Djokovic wraps up another one quickly. Still less than an hour played in this and the Serb is closing in on the second set.
4.28amSET! Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 3-6 Verdasco. The Spaniard has taken that one into a decider. It really could go either way.
Djokovic 6-2 *4-3 MathieuThe Frenchman's cross-court backhand is a clear weak spot. Most of the last few attempts have ended in the net. However, he responds with an unbelievable backhand down the line, with Djokovic doing the same on the very next return. Then it's superb from both men as Mathieu returns what looked a certain winner down the line on his forehand side.
Djokovic 6-2 4-2* MathieuMathieu now showing a bit of confidence on the Djokovic serve but goes just wide with a backhand down the line with the Serb beaten. After that, though, Djokovic turns the screw and takes the game to love.
Djokovic 6-2 *3-2 MathieuMathieu is now serving very accurately. Until of course a double-fault at 40-0. However, he responds magnificently with a deep, wide serve that asks too much of Djokovic on the return.
Djokovic 6-2 3-1* MathieuNo worries from Djokovic after losing the last game and being run close with his previous service game. He simply took the balls and hit a series of winners to restore his two-game cushion.
4.15amSET! Youzhny 4-6 Ebden. The Aussie has taken the first set against the big Russian, which will surely delight the Melbourne crowd.
Djokovic 6-2 *2-1 MathieuMathieu responds well on his serve and gets a huge slice of luck with one that clips the net and touches the line, but in truth he deserved that game for some accurate hitting.
4.13amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Zakopalova 6-1 6-2 Scheepers
Djokovic 6-2 2-0* MathieuDjokovic saves one, Mathieu puts the next into the top of the net and the next also doesn't make it over. Djokovic turned 0-40 into a game with two aces on deuce. That's the stuff champions are made of.
4.09amThree break points for Mathieu!
4.08amBetter from Mathieu here as he attacks the Djokovic serve twice to go 0-30 up.
Djokovic 6-2 *1-0 MathieuBREAK! Marvellous backhand return from Djokovic just guides the ball down the line and suddenly it's 0-40 and three break points. He puts the first into the net but Mathieu goes long with a backhand and it's an immediate break.
4.04amSET! Berdych 6-3 7-5 Russell
4.03amSET! Djokovic 6-2 Mathieu There was some resistance from Mathieu but little sweat from the Serb as the Frenchman weakly returns into the net to give Djokovic the first.
Djokovic *5-2 MathieuSuddenly some fight from the Frenchman. He served and rallied well in that game to take only his second - and by far most comfortable - of the match so far. However Djokovic to serve for the set.
Djokovic 5-1* MathieuIt was looking like another comfortable Djokovic service game, but Mathieu battled back to deuce. However, the Serb stepped up a gear to take another game in this set. He's cruising but still has a lot more in him.
Djokovic *4-1 MathieuBREAK! The pair embark on a couple of rallies on Mathieu's next service game and that is a battle Novak is always likely to win. He does indeed and Djokovic is now streaking away with the opening set.
Djokovic 3-1* MathieuDespite some resistance from Mathieu, particularly on second serve, Djokovic holds and extends his first-set lead.
Djokovic *2-1 MathieuSo Djokovic broke his French opponent at the first time of asking, before holding serve. Mathieu is 40-15 up before the Serb battles back to deuce. The Frenchman goes to the net well to volley an advantage, with Djokovic going long on the next point to give Mathieu his first game.
3.40amSET! Goffin 3-6 6-3 6-4 Verdasco. The Belgian holds for the third set and has turned it around.
3.39amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Wawrinka 6-2 6-4 6-3 Stebe
Goffin 3-6 6-3 *5-4 VerdascoVerdasco just about wraps up his service game to make Giffin serve for the set. I lied. I'm going to the Djokovic game now. Will keep you posted on this one.
3.35amDjokovic has just started his match against Mathieu. I'll bring coverage of that after this set. Mikhail Youzhny is also in action against Australian Matthew Ebden.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 5-3* VerdascoGoffin moves within a game of this third and crucial set. He continues to make Verdasco work, sending him around the court chasing the ball and the Spaniard hits a return long to give Goffin the game.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 *4-3 VerdascoBREAK! He takes it! Wonderful forehand accuracy from Goffin, going three or four times to Verdasco's backhand before finally beating him down the forehand line. Good play, and it's advantage the Belgian now.
3.28amAnd Goffin has three break points at 3-3 in the third against Verdasco..
3.27amSo what's happening elsewhere? Well, fifth seed Tomas Berdych is a set up against American Michael Russell. He's also 2-1 up in the second.
3.25amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 6-2 [6]6-7 6-2 Johnson Johnson saved two further match points, but the 34th ace from Almagro ended the contest. And what a contest. Great effort from the American qualifier!
3.23amMATCH POINT! Now 40-15...
3.23amAlmagro is just about to wrap up his game with Johnson, he's 5-2 and 30-15 up in the fifth.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 *2-3 VerdascoThis third set is going with serve currently and this one looks like it could be going the distance. Two very different tennis styles somewhat cancelling each other out as it stands.
3.19amThanks very much Michael. Sorry folks, you're back with me now.
3.18amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Radwanska 7-5 6-0 Bobusic There's no dream for the Aussie as Radwanska resumes normal service to take the second set to love.
3.15amAnyway, that's quite enough from me for one evening. I shall hand you back over to Mr Domm, who will continue to be your eyes and ears in Melbourne.
3.14amBREAK! Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 6-2 [6]6-7 4-1 Johnson The Spaniard seems to have weathered the storm now and is on course for the second round.
Goffin 3-6 6-3 *1-2 VerdascoBREAK! It's back on serve on Hisense as Verdasco breaks right back!
3.11amAlmagro consolidates his break by holding serve against Johnson. He's got his nose in front 3-1 but the American is in inspired form!
3.10amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Stosur 7-6[3] 6-3 Chang
3.08amAlmagro has gone an early break up in the fifth set against Johnson.
3.07amRadwanska has raced into a 5-0 lead in the second set against Bobusic. She struggled in the first, but looks certain to book her place in the next round.
3.05amSET! Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 6-2 [6]6-7 Johnson The American has set up a deciding set in a titanic tussle on court number three. He saved two match points as well!
3.02amSET! Verdasco 6-3 3-6 Goffin He's done it! It's all square on Hisense as Verdasco once again puts too much power into a doubled-handed backhand and gifts Goffin the second set!
3amGoffin fluffs his lines as he meekly cuts a backhand into the net.
2.59amSET POINT! Verdasco hits a return long and the young Belgian can level matters here...
Goffin 3-6 *5-3 VerdascoBREAK! Goffin makes the breakthrough to serve for the set!
2.54amVerdasco has a rapier-like left forehand when it gets pumping, and it's in full flow as he smashes one down the line. However, Goffin has the tools for the job as well, and counter-punches brilliantly in reply.
Goffin 3-6 4-3* VerdascoGoffin takes the game to move 4-3 in front. There's life in this one, but you have to fancy Verdasco.
2.50amGoffin is dealing with Verdasco's deep forehands much better in this set. The Spaniard dumps into the net to give the Belgian game point on serve.
2.49amThe Pole was down 5-4 in that set before breaking twice to snatch it from under Bobusic's nose. The sign of a champion? I'm sure we'll find out.
2.47amSET! Radwanska 7-5 Bobusic
2.46amThanks Matt. And hello to all you tennis fans, wherever you may be in the world.
2.44amRight, I'm off to get some much-needed caffeine. I'll leave things in the capable hands of Michael Penkman for the next half-hour.
Goffin 3-6 3-2* VerdascoBREAK! Verdasco works his way to 0-30 but blows a huge chance with an open court to allow Goffin back in it. However, at 15-40 an absolutely superb cross-court backhand wins him the break straight back.
Goffin 3-6 *3-1 VerdascoBREAK! When he is able to get any conviction on his returns the Belgian really knows how to find the corners as he shows with a lovely forehand down the line. Goffin's chance to make it 15-40 is just wide but a double-fault gifts the chance of a break and he takes it at the first time of asking.
Goffin 3-6 2-1* VerdascoClassic wide serve and winner down the line from Goffin, who has just started finding the line with a lot of his shots. Verdasco gets back into it superbly with a fizzing forehand that grazes the baseline but returns long next to go behind in the set.
Goffin 3-6 *1-1 VerdascoVerdasco responds with more powerful serving. Goffin again can only return out of bounds for 40-15 and despite getting the next return in he loses out in the ensuing rally.
Goffin 3-6 1-0* VerdascoGoffin holds the opening game of the second set.
2.26amSET! Kai-Chen [3]6-7 Stosur
Goffin 3-6 *0-0 VerdascoGoffin battling a little better now on the Verdasco serve, but is still unable to get himself into points when the Spaniard properly connects. Verdasco wraps the set up with a deep serve that Goffin can only return long.
2.23amSET! Goffin 3-6 Verdasco
Goffin 3-5* VerdascoBetter to start with from Goffin, but a double-fault at 40-15 brings Verdasco back into it. However, Goffin wins a good rally from the baseline to take the game.
2.18amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Georges 7-5 2-6 6-4 Dushevina
2.17amMeanwhile, Benneteau's win over Dimitrov is an early semi-shock. The Bulgarian had been tipped to do well here, but Benneteau the 32nd seed did a professional job.
Goffin *2-5 VerdascoThe 22nd seeded Spaniard has started well here and that left arm is full of power. Goffin is struggling against the serve and Verdasco needs just one more to take the opening set.
2.15amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Benneteau 6-4 6-2 6-4 Dimitrov
2.13amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Malisse 6-3 6-1 6-2 Andujar
2.10amI imagine that game will be wrapped up fairly soon, so let's head over to Goffin vs. Verdasco.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 6-2 *0-0 JohnsonJohnson is getting sloppy now and Almagro wraps up the break to love in a matter of seconds. From 2-2 that set really got away from Johnson.
2.06amSET! Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 6-2 Johnson
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 5-2* JohnsonAlmagro means business now. A challenge at 30-0 brings ace number 17 and he finishes it off with number 18 straight down the T. An excellent hold to love.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 *4-2 JohnsonBREAK! Almagro forces the issue with some good baseline shots and an effort from Johnson that hits the frame of his racket gives the Spaniard two break points. He's long with the first and after some really aggressive tennis Johnson plops an attempted drop-shot into the net.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 3-2* JohnsonJohnson misses the chance to go 15-30 ahead with a shot into the net, and Almagro punishes the error by holding his serve. Very little in this at the moment, you feel the next break is crucial.
1.55amAgnieska Radwanska is now on court and she is up against another home hopeful in the shape of Bojana Bobusic.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 *2-2 JohnsonA poor shot by Johnson gives Almagro a chance with a break point, but the American forces the issue well to cause an error. Johnson then works Almagro into the corner to set up a lovely drop-shot before finishing the game with an ace down the line. Very good hold.
1.48amElsewhere, Goffin vs. Verdasco, Stebe vs. Wawrinka are underway as is Kai-Chen vs. Stosur in the women's draw. It will be interesting to see how the Australian does this year. We'll keep you updated with the latest in those games.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 2-1* JohnsonAlmagro again plays a good service game and finishes with an ace - his 15th overall - to edge back in front.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 *1-1 JohnsonJohnson is only stopped from taking his opening service game of the set to love by a flukey Almagro shot that just pops over after hitting the net. A double-fault follows but Johnson moves to the net splendidly to volley the winner.
Almagro 7-5 [4]6-7 1-0* JohnsonNo problems whatsoever in the first game of the third set for Almagro as he takes it to love. This is a big test of his character here.
1.40amThis one's exciting, so I'll be sticking with it for a bit at least.
1.38amSET! Almagro 7-5 (4)6-7 Johnson
1.36amA couple of really good points from Johnson and it's now set-point to the American at 6-3!
1.35amAlmagro survived his scare and is currently locked in a tie-breaker - it's 3-3 as it stands.
1.34amIndeed Li does wrap it up in about an hour and a quarter. She wasn't as dominant as Sharapova or Williams, but the sixth seed is comfortably through to the second round.
1.33amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Li 6-1 6-3 Karatantcheva
1.30amElsewhere, Li Na is tied at deuce, up 5-3 and a set against Karatantcheva. It looks just about over that one.
1.28amAlmagro is finding himself in a real battle on court three against the American qualifier Johnson. He took the first 7-5, but he's 6-5 and 15-30 down currently in the second.
1.25amSET! Benneteau 6-4 6-2 Dimitrov
1.23amWilliams hammers a return before showing a deft touch for a sublime drop-shot to make it 0-30. Voskoboeva fights back to level the game but a thunderous return sees the ball flash back past her for break point. It takes a deuce, but Williams powers through for a routine win.
1.23amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Williams 6-1 6-0 Voskoboeva
Williams 6-1 5-0* VoskoboevaThe Kazakhstani does really well to pull level for deuce, but then mishits a return, before hitting the next shot into the net and Venus is strolling.
1.13amVenus Williams against Galina Voskoboeva looks to be coming to an end. The American is 6-1 4-0 up. I'll stay with this until its conclusion.
1.08amGAME, SET AND MATCH! Sharapova 6-0 6-0 Puchkova. A completely dominant performance by Sharapova and it's over inside an hour. Puchkova had no answers despite a good early start and Sharapova utterly breezes through.
1.06amPuchkova starts with her first double-fault. That won't help and it's followed by another...
Sharapova 6-0 5-0* PuchkovaAnother all too easy service game from Sharapova and in truth Puchkova has been playing like she was already beaten for quite some time. Just a break needed for Sharapova to wrap up a swift first-round win.
1.03amSET! Goerges 7-5 Dushevina
Sharapova 6-0 *4-0 PuchkovaBREAK! Sharapova fights back from 30-0 down to take another break. Just two away now.
12.58amSET! Malisse 6-3 Andujar
Sharapova 6-0 3-0* PuchkovaPuchkova shows her nerves at 30-15 down after setting Sharapova up but then missing the line with her forehand. Sure enough, an ace arrives next for 3-0.
Sharapova 6-0 *2-0 PuchkovaBREAK! Sharapova breaks again and once more it's comfortable. Looking to be a triple bagel, this one.
12.53amSETS! Parmentier 6-2 Govortsova Pironkova 6-4 Oprandi Almagro 7-5 Johnson Benneteau 6-4 Dimitrov Reister 6-4 Rufin Authom 6-1 Bertocq
Sharapova 6-0 1-0* PuchkovaAnother double fault at 40-15 makes the game harder than it should have been, but Sharapova takes the lead in the second set after a deuce.
12.50amSET! Li 6-1 Karatantcheva
12.49amSET! Roger-Vasselin 6-3 Bemelmans
12.46amThe second has gone to Pauline Parmentier who takes the opening set 6-2 against Olga Govortsova of Belarus. Meanwhile, the second set has begun here and Sharapova is still looking good.
12.44amIt was indeed the first set of the day and it took just half an hour to arrive.
Sharapova 6-0 *0-0 PuchkovaSET! Sharapova somehow stays in the point up 0-15, before Puchkova hits two unforced errors wide. Two points later it's first blood to Sharapova with Puchkova finding the net.
Sharapova 5-0* PuchkovaPuchkova battled really well in that game but Sharapova showed just how good she is with the final point, once more running her opponent right then left before finishing off with a powerful half-volley. Puchkova is playing better than 5-0 suggests, but I don't think this will last long.
12.38amThe race to win the first set of the tournament is on. Sharapova is battling Maxime Authom who is also four up against Carlos Berlocq.
Sharapova *4-0 PuchkovaBREAK! Sharapova immediately attacks the Puchkova serve to win the first couple of points but her compatriot fights back to force an error. However, despite her brave baseline play it's a comfortable break for Sharapova.
Sharapova 3-0* PuchkovaNow she's finding her feet. A thunderous ace down the T and Puchkova is nowhere near a return. She follows up with some power shots, forcing her opponent all over the court before eventually coming to the net to slam home a volley. Another huge ace wraps up game number three, and it's looking ominous now.
Sharapova *2-0 PuchkovaSHARAPOVA BREAKS! Good play from Puchkova to force Sharapova wide a couple of times before using her power to finish. Sharapova fights back from 40-15 to force a deuce and then shows her opponent how it's done with a couple of deep forehands to force the telling errors.
12.22amI have to say that was an impressive start from Puchkova. She had Sharapova in trouble with a break-point and is matching the second seed from the baseline early on.
Sharapova 1-0* PuchkovaThe 2008 champion starts with her well-known service problems and gives away a double-fault on just the second point. She's then beaten at her own game with Puchkova winning a brutal baseline rally. A poor review from Sharapova gives Puchkova a break point but the former recovers well to just about wrap up the opening game after a series of deuces.
12.19amElsewhere, number 10 seed Nicolas Almagro is underway against Steve Johnson, with the American taking the opening game.
12.11amFirst, however, we're following the women's draw as Sharapova takes on Puchkova. I'll be providing game-by-game updates as well as any exciting goings-on from the other courts. Practice is over, they're about ready to start.
12.10amUnfortunately there will be no Nadal to attempt to get revenge, as he pulled out at the end of December.
12.07amRemember last year's final in the men's draw? Novak Djokovic beat Rafael Nadal in an epic near six-hour battle. Here's hoping for similar matches this year.
12.05amAlso in the women's draw is Kai-Chen Chang up against Samantha Stosur, one of the home favourites.
12.03amIt's day one, which is where wildcards and the lower-ranked qualifiers get their big chance to claim a scalp. Notable matches today include Maria Sharapova vs. Olga Puchkova and later on Novak Djokovic vs. Paul-Henri Mathieu.
12amHello all, and thanks for joining us for our coverage of the Australian Open.
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