Wang Qiang to take confidence out of Australian Open, despite rd 2 loss

After defeating American Sloane Stephens, China's Wang Qiang could not replicate her giant killing antics in Round 2 of the Australia Open.

German rising star Anna-Lena Friedsam, 21, snatched a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Wang on Court 6 in the early stages of the third day of the Australian-based Slam.

Despite the disappointing result, Wang told reporters post-match that she thought Monday's win over seeded opposition could form the basis of a ground-breaking year on tour.

"Yes, I think so," Wang said on Wednesday.

"First match I beat big seed. For me this is very helpful for the rest of the season."

Wang said a top 50 finish in the year-end rankings wasn't out of the question.

Currently ranked just outside the top 100 at 102, Wang fought on bravely breaking as Friedsam served for the match at 5-2.

But on the second time of asking, Friedsam didn't let nerves get the better of her wrapping up the match. It's the first time the young German has made the Round of 32 at a major championship. Endit