Barty’s problem-free philosophy a winner

ASHLEIGH Barty has dismissed concerns over external pressures and serving efficiency as the world No.1 bids to capitalise on a seed-free run to Wimbledon’s fourth round.

Defeats of former champions Garbine Muguruza and Maria Sharapova rob the championships of star power, but simplify Barty’s challenge.

She oozes confidence and calm ahead of a second-round clash with Belgian Alison van Uytvanck, batting away fears her serve is susceptible.

“My serve was there when I needed it,” she said after rolling China’s Zheng Saisai.

“In big points it was there. It’s certainly no stress for me.”

Barty’s 13th straight win cemented her hold on the world No.1 ranking and underlined the benefit of a clear thought process.

The Queenslander is channelling The Lion King as she attempts to become the first Australian since Evonne Goolagong in 1971 to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same season.

“Kind of came into it thinking kind of like Hakuna Matata, just relax and go for it,” she said, referencing the musical’s carefree philosophy.

“The only pressure I have is what I put on myself. Ultimately, when we play our matches, we go out there and enjoy it.

“That’s why we do all the work, all the practices — to go out there and enjoy competing.

“Play each match as it comes. There’s certainly no extra stresses on any match.

“I’ve played Alison before on hard courts, haven’t played her on the grass. She has the ability to take the game away from you pretty early in rallies.

“It will be important for me to neutralise that the best I can and bring variety into the match, as well.”

Sam Stosur and Arina Rodionova fell at the first hurdle, as 26th seed Muguruza was upset by Beatriz Haddad Maia, of Brazil. Sharapova retired with left forearm soreness when trailing Pauline Parmentier 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 5-0.