Nalbandian advances

Fourth-seeded Argentine David Nalbandian has survived a major scare to defeat Thailand’s Danai Udomchoke 6-2 6-2 1-6 6-7 (4/7) 6-1 in their first-round match at the Australian Open in Melbourne.

The qualifier proved a gutsy opponent for the South American fourth seed but experience and skill prevailed at the end of the marathon battle.