The world number 19 took just 35 minutes to complete a surprise 11-6, 11-6, 11-5 victory over the Pan American Games champion, who appeared to be struggling with injury during the second and third games.

The Spaniard is now due to face Hong Kong’s Leo Au, who overcame Gregoire Marche in straight games.

“This is one of the biggest tournaments on the circuit and the first event of 2016 so to start by beating a player of Miguel’s ability is a good confidence boost for me,” Golan said.

“I struggled with my consistency last year and I had a few matches where I was close to winning, but just couldn’t see it out, and I lost some of my confidence.

“I worked hard throughout the Christmas break and changed some of my training with the aim of feeling good on court so to get off to such a good start in 2016 is great for me.”

Elsewhere on the first day of the PSA World Series event, world number one Mohamed Elshorbagy cruised through to round two with a comfortable 11-5, 11-8, 11-2 win against England's Adrian Waller.

Elshorbagy, the winner at the Hong Kong Open last month, helping him to confirm his status as the top-ranked men’s singles player for 2015, controlled proceedings on his way to a dominant victory as he got his title defence off to the best possible start.

“I started 2015 in great form here by winning this trophy so I’m hoping to start 2016 in the same fashion and look forward to playing in front of the fantastic crowd here in New York once again in two days’ time,” the Egyptian said.

Elshorbagy’s compatriot Omar Mosaad, seeded fifth, also progressed in straight games as he beat Lucas Serme of France 11-8, 11-6, 11-4.

Australian Cameron Pilley continued his recent run of good form as he made light work of Tarek Momen of Egypt by claiming an 11-4, 11-3, 11-3 triumph in just 36 minutes.

The tournament is due to continue in New York City tomorrow with the second-half of the men’s first round matches.