Maria Kirilenko has crushed Vania King 6-4 6-2 to march into the second round of the Australian Open.
The Russian will now face Peng Shuai in the next round, as the Chinese professional overcame her opponent Rebecca Marino, also in straight sets.
It was a well-contested encounter in the first set, as the 23-year-old American broke three times and pushed the 14th seed hard.
However, 14 winners came from the racquet of Kirilenko, signifying her superior quality.
King's challenge faded dramatically in the second set, which she dropped 6-2 to bow out at the first hurdle.
Written by
Michael Penkman
Michael Penkman
