A red-hot Ashleigh Barty said hard work during her extended off-season had primed her for an Australian Open assault after the number one seed delivered a masterclass to crush Danka Kovinic.
It was a near-flawless performance from the 24-year-old Australian, who won the first 16 points en route to a 6-0, 6-0 first-round romp in 44 minutes.
Barty entered her home Slam having won the warm-up Yarra Valley Classic in her first tournament in 11 months, after she opted to remain home during the pandemic — even deciding against defending her French Open crown.
Barty enjoyed the rarity of extra family time during her breather, but also worked tirelessly on the practice courts.
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Keep on reading: Bagel-serving Barty shows hunger at Australian Open