Svitolina beats Dolehide to reach the third round of the Australian Open

How will Elina Svitolina fare in Melbourne? The former world number 3, who underwent foot surgery after the US Open, is currently playing in her first tournament since her operation and needs to gradually regain her sensations.

After defeating Sorana Cirstea in her opening match (6-4, 6-4), the Ukrainian faced Caroline Dolehide for a place in the third round.

The American, now back outside the top 80, had eliminated Bejlek in the first round in two sets.

In a match that she mastered on the whole, the 2018 WTA Finals winner won in two sets (6-1, 6-4), saving all eight break points she faced.

With 29 winners and 26 unforced errors (as many as her opponent of the day), Svitolina didn't spend too much time on court and validates her qualification for the third round of the Australian Open.

This is the tenth time in her career that she has reached this stage of the competition at Melbourne Park, having reached the quarter-finals in 2018 and 2019. It is also her 100th Grand Slam victory.

Last year, Svitolina retired in the Round of 16 with a back injury against Noskova. She could meet up with Jasmine Paolini for a place in the second week.

The Italian, seeded number 4, will conclude the second-round program on Rod Laver Arena against Mexican Renata Zarazua.