Last year's Australian Open finalist Dinara Safina advanced to the fourth round of this season's first Grand Slam tournament here on Friday after beating Britain's Elena Baltacha in straight sets.

Dinara Safina of Russia hits a return against Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland during the Sydney International tennis tournament January 12, 2010. Safina beats Radwanska 2-0. [Xinhua/Reuters]

The Russian No. 2 seed, still bidding for her first Grand Slam title, proved too strong for her opponent and raced to a 6-1, 6-2 victory in 57 minutes.

It was Safina's first match at the Rod Laver Arena since her defeat to Serena Williams in last year's final.

"I'm very happy to be back here even though my last appearance was very difficult for me," said Safina.

"I don't have very good memories of the court from last year but I've had some unbelievable matches here and I'm very pleased with my victory today."