MELBOURNE, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- World number two Jannik Sinner started his quest for a third straight Australian Open title by comfortably winning the opening two sets before France's Hugo Gaston retired injured on Tuesday.
An ailing Gaston, world No.93, had to pull the pin just 68 minutes into the first round match after struggling to move around the center court of Rod Laver Arena.
Sinner, a four-time grand slam champion, hit 19 winners and led 6-2, 6-1 in his first match in over two months.
"Not the way you want to win the match but he's a very talented player," Sinner said. "I'm very happy to come here, it's a special place."
Gaston, world No.93, faced a daunting task to win a match at the Australian Open for a third straight year.
He had Sinner's serve under immediate pressure before the Italian's trademark poise saw him completely dominate.
After having treatment at the end of the first set, Gaston's movement was clearly compromised and he was forced to retire hurt.
Sinner will play Australian wildcard James Duckworth or Dino Prizmic in the second round. ■
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