Azarenka powers past Teichmann at Australian Open, Svitolina, Giorgi advance

Victoria Azarenka looked to be in fine form on Wednesday, overpowering Jil Teichmann to reach the third round of the Australian Open.

The former World No.1 dominated the match to secure a 6-1 6-2 victory, dictating play from the baseline with her powerful groundstrokes. Azarenka converted all four of her break point opportunities, in addition to saving all five break points faced.

The Belarusian coupled her dangerous ground game with precise volleys, winning 13 of 16 points at the net. Teichmann was left scrambling to keep balls in play, which led to the Swiss star committing 27 unforced errors. Regardless, Azarenka sealed her victory after 73 minutes, closing out the match with a backhand winner.

In other second round action, Elina Svitolina fought past Harmony Tan, establishing a 6-3 5-7 5-1 lead before the Frenchwoman was forced to retire. In a match that saw both ladies lose serve on multiple occasions, it was the 15th seed who maintained her composure, although Tan seemed to be battling an injury in the decider.

Italian Camila Giorgi defeated Tereza Martincova 6-2 7-6(2) to advance to the third round. The 30th seed withstood 11 double faults, but compensated by having a high first serve percentage and hitting 31 winners.

Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk upset 32nd seed Sara Sorribes Tormo in an exciting 7-6(5) 6-3 encounter, overpowering her Spanish opponent with an astounding 32 winners.