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Cape Town - Garbine Muguruza and Madison Keys both moved one step closer to securing their spots at the WTA Finals with first-round wins at the Generali Ladies Linz on Wednesday.
French Open champion Muguruza needed an hour and 38 minutes to defeat Cagla Buyukakcay 6-4, 6-4, securing four breaks of serve to one as she overcame a pretty stiff challenge from her Turkish opponent.
"It was a tough first round. I think we both played well, so it was a battle out there, and a great feeling to start the tournament with a win like this," Muguruza said after the match.
"I was looking forward to Linz because it's new for me, new city, new tournament. I don't play a lot of new tournaments, so I was excited."
Muguruza moves on to face Monica Niculescu, who beat Madison Brengle on Tuesday.
"I've never played against her, or even practiced together, so it'll be interesting. I think we have opposite styles, so I think it's going to be a fun match."
Elsewhere, Keys also had to be at her best to defeat Camila Giorgi 6-3, 6-4.
Giorgi was able to snatch breaks in both sets, although Keys did more damage on the Italian's serve and was able to wrap up the result after an hour and 20 minutes.
"Definitely feels good to get a win. Camila's always a tough person to play - she really goes for her shots and hits a lot of winners out there. I feel really happy to get through to the second round," said the American.
Two players also advanced to the quarter-finals on Wednesday.
Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro defeated compatriot Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-4, 6-1, while France's Océane Dodin beat Sorana Cirstea 6-2, 6-4.
