IF 2005 was Ana Ivanovic’s breakthrough year — one in which she climbed 81 places, to No 16, in the WTA world rankings — the powerful 18-year-old is suggesting that her meteoric rise could continue. Having stunned Amélie Mauresmo by beating her in the French Open last year, Ivanovic again overcame her illustrious opponent to win their second-round match in the Sydney International in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5.

Mauresmo, at 5ft 9in and nearly 11st, is not likely to be overpowered on court too often but the Serbian, three inches taller and half a stone heavier, did precisely that yesterday. Her rocket of a forehand, hit as hard as any in the women’s game, was in near-perfect working order, bringing her the bulk of her 28 winners, 17 more than Mauresmo managed. The French world No 3 admitted that it had caused her problems, not only on account of its power but also because it is difficult to read.

With her stunning looks, Ivanovic has attracted a vocal following here. Two posses of supporters, one wearing Red Star Belgrade football shirts, cheered her noisily through 30C temperatures in which humidity levels touched 90 per cent. She can expect even greater support at the Australian Open next week as she has relatives living in Melbourne.

Ivanovic, who broke Mauresmo’s serve five times, was thrilled with her win. “It was really hot and hard out there,” she said. “I think it was a good match from both of us, but it was her first of the year and it’s always hard after a long break. I put her under quite a lot of pressure, but I think my first serve has to be a little bit more secure.”

Mauresmo, who had a bye in the first round when she needed a match, struggled with her serve but was full of praise for her opponent. “She’s had a few matches already this year and I think that probably made the difference in some key points today,” she said. “But she played better than me and is one of the biggest hitters on tour. She’s been playing well for the last few months.”