DOHA, Qatar (AFP) —— Carlos Alcaraz made a triumphant return to action following his Australian Open success as he beat Arthur Rinderknech 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) in the first round in Doha on Tuesday.

Alcaraz, who became the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam with his victory in Melbourne, saw off the 30th-ranked Rinderknech in two closely contested sets.

“It was really difficult. Arthur is a really dangerous player. Nobody wants to play against him in the first round,” Alcaraz said.

“I’m happy with the level. I’m happy that I got through difficult moments in the match. I’m happy that I stayed calm and positive, and played great tennis.”

The world No. 1 will face another Frenchman in round two, 60th-ranked Valentin Royer.

Alcaraz took the first set after breaking in the fifth game but faced dogged resistance from Rinderknech, who brought up his first break points of the match with the top seed serving to force a tie-break in the second set.

The Spaniard saved both and then closed out victory in the tie-break, ripping a forehand down the line on match point.