Hingis wins in straight sets

Martina Hingis beat home favourite Sam Stosur in straight sets to create a glitzy quarter-final clash with Kim Clijsters at the Australian Open.

Hingis, in her first major tournament since deciding to come out of retirement, reached the last eight with a 6-1 7-6 (10-8) triumph in the Rod Laver Arena.

The Swiss, who is 25 years old, entered the draw unseeded but is now three victories shy of capturing her fourth Australian Open title.

Hingis was full of praise for her Australian opponent afterwards and even apologised to the home crowd for knocking her out.

She said: “She is a great fighter, she was the last Aussie standing so sorry for that but I hope I get that support in the next round.

“She is still young and Aussie players are always more dangerous in their home country.

“She has an amazing kick serve. I think she has a great future.”