BEIJING, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Reigning US Open champion Bianca Andreescu of Canada registered a straight-set victory over Belgium's Elise Mertens in women's singles second round of China Open here on Wednesday.
It took the fifth-seeded Canadian one hour and 55 minutes to secure a spot in the round of 16 with a score 6-3, 7-6(5), extending her winning streak to 16 matches since the Rogers Cup in August.
Andreescu overcame Mertens in US Open quarterfinals in full sets en route to her maiden Grand Slam title.
"I didn't go in three sets this time," Andreescu smiled. "I think I was extra focused in the tiebreaker because of that reason."
Andreescu had to erase a 1-4 deficit and a set point in the second set before grinding out her win.
Next up against the Canadian teenager will be Jennifer Brady, who stunned No. 11 seed Madison Keys, also from the United States, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4.
"We both improved a lot. She has a big serve, a big forehand, and she moves quite well.
"I just want to go out there, put on my best performance, be more positive, and hopefully I can get the win," Andreescu noted.
