A remarkable reflex volley has helped Alex de Minaur avoid disaster and progress to the last 16 of the Australian Open. De Minaur battled to a 5-7, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3, 6-3 victory over 31st seed Francisco Cerundolo in a gruelling match that went a tick under four hours.

Alex De Minaur has got his Australian Open campaign off to a flyer, the top-ranked local hope sending dangerous Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp packing.

Pressure is said to be a privilege, and this has never been lost on Alex de Minaur, but the world number eight has become accustomed to bearing the weight of expectation.

Australian top gun Alex de Minaur has shown he's on pace for a run deep into the Open with a straight-sets win over Botic van de Zandschulp in round one.

Australia's eighth-seeded title hope continued his best start to an Open in four years with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-3 disposal of American qualifier Tristan Boyer on Thursday. Revered for his lightning speed, de Minaur showcased his vastly improved service game and net play in another super impressive display on Rod Laver Arena.