Andre Agassi pummelled Wimbledon champion Roger Federer 6-2 6-4, installing himself as the pre-tournament favourite of the fans and pundits to retain his Australian Open crown.
While Federer is the favourite of the bookmakers ahead of the opening Grand Slam of the season, Agassi's overwhelming victory left few who witnessed the one-sided Kooyong International match in much doubt who was in the better form.
"Today we had a little less wind, it was pretty calm," Agassi told reporters after creating his own cyclone on centre court.
"You know, you have to take your chances against Roger because he has such a feel for the game and has such great weapons. You can't hope for better preparation than this; to play the world's best players coming into the first Grand Slam of the year."
It took the American only 22 minutes to snatch the opening set under a bright Melbourne sun as world number two Federer struggled to contain the 33-year-old's pace.
Smashing his backhand all over the court, Agassi broke Federer to love in the first game of the second set and the Swiss walked back to his chair looking downtrodden and disillusioned.
'FELT GREAT'
The second set was a little closer but Agassi never looked like letting it escape from his grip.
The victory was a great boost, he said, to his confidence.
"I have been pretty fortunate the way things have gone down here in the past," he said.
"Coming out here and winning these matches does a lot for your confidence.
"I have come into a lot of Grand Slams not feeling right but then getting my range...other times I have felt great.
"You never know when you are going to need it...you just have to make sure it is there when you do."
Australian Open champion in 2002, Thomas Johansson's preparations took a knock when he was thrashed 6-4 6-2 by Sebastien Grosjean.
Swede Johansson, who missed nearly all of last year through injury, took a set off Federer but 24 hours later was disappointing against the French baseliner.
Robby Ginepri finished off play on day two, beating fellow American Taylor Dent 7-5 6-1.
