Ivanovic beats Robson to enter last 16 in Tokyo, Kvitova advances too

Where former World No.1 Ana Ivanovic had to struggle for two well contested sets, Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova had a smooth sailing as both made it to the last 16 of the Toray Pan Pacific Tennis Open.

Serbian star Ana Ivanovic posted a tough yet comprehensive victory over British teenager Laura Robson to advance to the pre-quarterfinals of the 2011 Toray Pan Pacific Open, a WTA premier event being played here in Tokyo, Japan.

Ivanovic made a tough start to the match and struggled to hold on to her opening service game after which she ensured a low error count to break Robson's serve in the 12th game and seal the set 7-5.

The second set saw a momentary shift in momentum when Robson got a double break for a 3-0 lead, only to be broken back right away giving Ivanovic her way back into the second set. With another break of serve in the tenth game then, Ivanovic completed the 7-5, 6-4 win in one hour and 27 minutes of play.

Earlier today, Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova stormed into the last 16 with a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win over Luxembourg's Mandy Minella. She was later joined by third seed Victoria Azarenka, who toppled Irina Begu 6-1, 6-3 to advance further in the tournament.