Hingis keeps comeback alive at Australian Open

MELBOURNE, Australia -- Martina Hingis beat Iveta Benesova 6-4, 6-1 earlier today, advancing to the fourth round of the Australian Open and flashing the form that carried her to six consecutive finals at Melbourne Park.

Hingis, the former top-ranked player making a comeback after a three-year retirement because of foot and heel problems, was in control most of the way against the 42nd-ranked Benesova.

Playing as a wild card and ranked No. 349, Hingis overwhelmed Benesova.

In earlier matches, 2004 French Open winner Anastasia Myskina beat Sweden's Sofia Arvidsson 6-3, 6-1. Nicole Vaidisova beat Flavia Pennetta 6-4, 6-2 and will play Amelie Mauresmo.

Hingis next plays the winner of today's match between Australia's Samantha Stosur and Sybille Bammer of Austria.

On Friday night, defending champion Serena Williams fended off four match points before 17th-seeded Daniela Hantuchova clinched a 6-1, 7-6 (5) upset in the third round