• WTA Tour

Ivanovic sets up Robson clash as Sharapova sails through

ESPN staff
September 26, 2011
Ana Ivanovic beat Anastasia Rodionova in straight sets © PA Photos
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Laura Robson will face former world No. 1 Ana Ivanovic at the Toray Pan Pacific Open after the Serb beat Anastasia Rodionova in straight sets to reach the second round in Tokyo.

Ivanovic needed just 64 minutes to see off the challenge of the Australian qualifier 6-4 6-0 at the Ariake Colosseum to set up a meeting with the British teenager, who upset Alexandra Dulgheru on Sunday.

In the first meeting between the pair, Ivanovic drew first blood with two early breaks to power to a 4-0 lead, and held off a valiant Rodionova fightback to wrap up the opening set. That seemed to sap the confidence from Rodionova, and she failed to hold another service game as 12th seed Ivanovic streaked away to victory.

Meanwhile, second seed Maria Sharapova eased into the third round with a routine win over Tamarine Tanasugarn. Playing in her first tournament since her US Open third-round defeat to Flavia Pennetta, Sharapova raced through the opening set before holding her nerve to claim a 6-2 7-5 win.

Also through to the last 16 is seventh seed Marion Bartoli, who had to battle from a set down to beat home favourite Ayumi Morita 6-3 0-6 6-3. Jelena Jankovic also won, defeating Barbora Zahlavova Strycova 6-4 6-2.

"I hadn't played since the US Open so I was looking forward to getting back on the court," Jankovic said. "I played well in the first set. I kind of came down in the second set but got myself going again to close it out."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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