Serena Williams outguns Francesca Schiavone in Toronto

Serena Williams has defeated Francesca Schiavone in straight sets to secure her place in the third round of the Rogers Cup.

The American powerhouse made short work of her Italian opponent, seeing her off 6-3 6-2 in just over one hour and 15 minutes.

Williams was nothing short of dominant throughout the contest, maintaining her serve while Schiavone's faltered five times across the two sets.

The world number one will take on Kirsten Flipkens, who knocked out her sister Venus yesterday, in round three.