Melbourne, Jan 12 (Reporter) Alexander Zverev made a statement of intent at the Australian Open 2025 with a commanding 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win over Lucas Pouille in the first round on Sunday night at Rod Laver Arena. Zverev, the World No. 2, wasted no time in advancing to the second round, completing the match in 2 hours and 21 minutes, his fastest first-round victory in Melbourne since 2019. The 27-year-old, who has been open about his desire to secure a Grand Slam title, has often faltered in major finals, including a heartbreaking loss to Dominic Thiem in the 2020 US Open and a defeat to Carlos Alcaraz at the 2024 French Open. With his focus squarely on winning a Grand Slam, Zverev has been working to avoid the prolonged battles that have plagued his previous campaigns. In contrast, Pouille, once ranked as high as No. 10 and a 2019 Australian Open semifinalist, struggled with the challenges posed by injury and mental health. Despite flashes of brilliance, including a few exquisite drop shots and passing winners, Pouille’s ranking has dropped to No. 103, and his wrist injury from late 2024 appeared to hinder his performance against the German. Pouille, who has spoken publicly about his battles with depression, was unable to capitalise on the numerous break points he earned during the match. Zverev, however, remained resolute, serving up 18 aces and winning nearly 80 percent of points on his first serve. His final break in the third set came courtesy of a lob and a swivelled backhand winner that left Pouille with little opportunity to respond. After the match, Zverev praised Pouille’s talent but noted that the Frenchman is not ranked as high as his ability warrants, wishing him a swift return to form and the rankings. Next up for Zverev is a second-round clash with Spain’s Pedro Martinez, where the German will look to continue his quest for his first Grand Slam title...////...