O'Brien impresses in Melbourne

The 23-year-old won 6-3 6-3 to progress past the first round of a grand slam for just the second time in her career.

O'Brien's best ever result at a major was reaching the second round at Wimbledon in 2007 and a confident display, against a player ranked three places behind her in 90th, ensured she would at least match that.

"I knew it was a good opportunity. I had a good draw and I knew I had to go out and compete," she said.

"I think I dictated the play today and made her do the running and wore her down. I think it was a good solid performance.

"I'm trying to add aggression to my game. There were a few points I was disappointed with where I let her in, but the first match of a grand slam is always tough. I think I settled down well though.

"I felt really good on court today."

A difficult task will, however, await her in the next round where she will play eighth seed Jelena Jankovic who defeated Monica Niculescu 6-3 6-0.