Bernard Tomic’s return to the Australian Open has been short, losing a first-round clash with 2018 finalist, Marin Cilic.

The sixth seed defeated the rejuvenated Queenslander 6-2 6-4 7-6 (7-3) in two hours and three minutes on Monday night.

Tomic, who failed to qualify for last year’s event, struggled with the big-serving Croatian’s power game on his return to his home slam, conceding 24 aces and 56 winners on Margaret Court Arena.