Sabalenka claims Bouzas Maneiro and 16th consecutive Australian Open victory

The two-time title-holder continues her winning ways in Melbourne.

Opening the day's session on Rod Laver Arena, the world number 1, who is emerging as the player to beat at this Australian Open, was up against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro for a place in the third round.

Sabalenka, who defeated Sloane Stephens in her opening two-set match, didn't hang around either, although the match was generally more closely contested than against the American.

In 1h34 of play, the Belarusian finally broke the Spaniard in two sets (6-3, 7-5), even though the latter had served to win the second set.

It was Sabalenka's 16th consecutive victory on the Melbourne courts.

The three-time Grand Slam winner will now face Clara Tauson for a place in the second week.

The Dane, who won the Auckland tournament to kick off the year, eliminated Linda Noskova (5-7, 6-3, 6-4) then Tatjana Maria (6-2, 6-2).

"She played some incredible tennis in the second set, and I'm delighted to have won in two sets.

There are so many players who are at their best in these conditions. Today's match showed that.

Girls can come onto the court and play without pressure, without having anything to lose. They can put you in an uncomfortable position.

You have to fight and be competitive by playing the best you can," said Sabalenka after her success.