Al2O3 matrix composites with unidirectionally oriented high-purity Al2O3 fibre with and without carbon coating, were fabricated by the filament-winding method, followed by hot-pressing at 1573-1773 K. The composite with non-coated Al2O3 fibre exhibited a bending strength (594 MPa) comparable to that of monolithic Al2O3 (589 MPa). While the composite with a carbon-coated fibre had lower strength (477 MPa), it showed improved fracture toughness (6.5 MPa m(1/2)) compared to the composite with an uncoated fibre (4.5 MPa m(1/2)) and monolithic Al2O3 (5.5 MPa m(1/2)). This toughness enhancement was explained based on the increased crack extension resistance caused by the fibre pull-out observed by SEM at the notch tip.