Jelena Dokic overcame a huge bout of nerves to start 2011 with a breakthrough victory at the Brisbane International, beating Russian qualifier Anastasia Pivovarova in straight sets on Monday night.
Looking for her first win in three years at the tournament, Dokic shook off stomach cramps and a shaky end to the first set to triumph 6-4 6-3.
The 26-year-old was extremely relieved after a 78-minute slugfest where she produced the groundstrokes and power for which she was renowned in her younger years.
Dokic raced to 4-1 in the first set but ran into troubles on her serve and also stumbled badly in failing to convert four set points.