Djokovic, Wawrinka ease through

After an opening day that saw seeds tumble and local players enjoy unexpected success, the Australian Open went mostly to script on Tuesday as world number one Novak Djokovic and defending champion Stanislas Wawrinka eased into the second round.

Eight women’s seeds were knocked out on Monday, while patriotic emotion flowed late into the evening after seven Australians won their first round matches, highlighted by upset victories for teenagers Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrigos in clashes that finished after midnight.

Already appearing jaded by the media attention in the leadup, the 29-year-old Wawrinka was keen to break the seal on his title defence and was a man in a hurry as he despatched Ilhan 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in a tick under 90 minutes on a warm and windy day at Rod Laver Arena.

Bidding to become the second man to win five Australian Open titles, and touted by pundits and fellow players as the man to beat, Djokovic put in just enough effort to beat Slovenian qualifier Aljaz Bedene 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a shade under two hours.

Kei Nishikori also had few problems, enjoying a 6-4, 7-6, 6-2 victory over former top-10 player Nicolas Almagro, who is on the comeback trail after foot surgery last June.