Friday, January 21 2005 19:22 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Melbourne: Serena Williams had not heard of Sania Mirza till two days ago, but she had a first hand experience of the Indian's potential at the Vodafone Arena today (Jan 21, 2005).

The American seventh seed won her third round match in women's singles 6-1 6-4 in 57 minutes but not before the 18-year-old wild card stretched her a bit in the second set along the way.

"She has a very solid game, especially to be so young, she's only 18," Williams said after being forced to save three break points and denied two match points by the underdog. "I definitely see a very bright future for her."

Serena also had words of praise for Sania after winning in straight sets.

"I told her to keep up the good work because it was good to see someone from India for the first time do so well," the American superstar said.