
On Monday, for a first Australian Open title, fit and firing player Simona Halep started her bid with an easy victory over local wildcard Lizette Cabrera.
The number two seed required typing and was hampered by a lower back injury in the warm-up Gippsland Trophy, however moved easily in the 6-2, 6-1 romp in 59 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. “I feel better, my body is fit,” said the Romanian, who hit 14 victors. “It feels extraordinary to be back in Melbourne.” Halep, whose seven-year streak in the best 10 is the longest dynamic run among ladies, broke serve in the initial game and afterward overpowered 23-year-old Cabrera, who has been not able to dominate a game at her home Slam in four endeavors.
Halep, is seeking a maiden victory at Melbourne park having fallen short to Caroline Wozniacki in the 2018 decider.
She was left shocked a year ago after a straight-sets misfortune to Gabrine Muguruza in the semi-finals.
Halep indeed be out to run Australian expectations when she meets Ajla Tomljanovic in the second round on Wednesday.