Venus Williams thrashes Ana Ivanovic to reach Dubai quarterfinals

In a battle of former world number ones, Venus Williams prevailed in the second round encounter against Ana Ivanovic at this week’s Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships with a score of 6-2, 6-1. Williams managed to avenge her defeat a month ago to the Serbian star in the final of the ASB Classic in Auckland.

Williams accepted a wildcard in the event after losing in the second round in last week’s Qatar Open. She has performed well in this Middle Eastern Premier WTA event, having won the event back in 2009 and 2010.

Up next for Williams is Italian qualifier Flavia Pennetta after the latter upset second-seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland 6-4, 6-1. Radwanska was a former champion of the event (2012).