Sakkari downs Kudermetova to advance in Melbourne

Maria Sakkari looked confident in her victory over Veronika Kudermetova at the Australian Open, booking passage to the round of 16 in straight sets.

The fifth seed surrendered only one break of serve in her 6-4 6-1 victory, exhibiting the poise and consistency that has seen her rise to the top of the game in recent months.

The Greek star lost her serve in the first set to trail 1-3, but soon righted the ship with a break of her own in the subsequent game. That would be the only break point faced by Sakkari in the match, as she held on to claim the opening set despite a spirited effort from her Russian opponent.

Sakkari was quick to pounce on a shaky opening service game by Kudermetova, and allowed the 28th seed only one more game before racing to a 5-1 lead. With Kudermetova serving for the match, Sakkari's consistent play was enough to see her obtain the final break, winning the match in an hour and 24 minutes.

The World No.8 will face Jessica Pegula in the fourth round, with the American booking her spot earlier in the day.