World number six Alex de Minaur inspired hosts Australia into the quarter-finals of the United Cup on Tuesday, defeating rising Czech star Jakub Mensik before sealing qualification with victory in the mixed doubles to ignite an enthusiastic Sydney crowd.

Belgium and the Czech Republic also progressed to the last eight of the season-opening 18-team ATP-WTA event, while Italy were eliminated.

With expectations high that the popular De Minaur — affectionately known as “Demon” — can make a deep run at the Australian Open later this month, the 24-year-old sent a clear message with an impressive 6-4, 6-1 win over world number 18 Mensik. The victory levelled the tie against the Czech Republic.

De Minaur then teamed up with Storm Hunter to clinch the decisive mixed doubles match in straight sets, ensuring Australia’s place in the quarter-finals, despite the Czechs also advancing despite the 2-1 defeat.

“I didn’t start the year the way I wanted to,” De Minaur said, after opening his campaign with a loss to Casper Ruud. “But one thing I’ve done well throughout my career is bounce back, and I’m happy I was able to do that today.”

In Perth, world number three Jasmine Paolini opened her season with a 6-2, 6-3 win over France’s Leolia Jeanjean, converting her sixth match point to secure victory. However, the result was not enough to prevent Italy from joining France in exiting the competition.

“First matches are always tricky,” said Paolini, a two-time Grand Slam finalist. “I’m happy with how I felt on court today. We couldn’t win the group this year, but we gave everything and fought until the last ball.”

Wednesday’s action includes quarter-final clashes between defending champions the United States and Greece, and Switzerland against Argentina, both in Perth. Meanwhile, world number two Iga Swiatek will feature in Sydney as Poland take on the Netherlands.