Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai shocks Cornet to make AO third round

China's Zhang Shuai has continued her world-beating Australian Open form on Thursday, defeating top 40 player Alize Cornet of France in straight sets.

Zhang, whose birthday was on Thursday, backed up her breakthrough Grand Slam win against 2nd seed Simona Halep of Romania with a convincing victory against the Frenchwoman ranked an astounding 100 places above her.

The qualifier was dogged in the victory, taking advantage of her break point opportunities while her not allowing her French opponent to capitalize on her chances.

In her post-match press conference, Zhang said she was still pinching herself after what turned out to be a "very nice birthday" in Melbourne.

"It's like a dream come true, but I'm looking forward to the next match," Zhang said.

"I don't want to stop right now, I want to keep going."

The win means China will have one player at the third round of the Open, after other Chinese hopeful Zheng Saisai was bundled out on Thursday.

The win is just Zhang's second Grand Slam win in 15 attempts; her victory follows on from her major upset on Tuesday, in which she defeated the Halep in straight sets.

Zhang is yet to lose a set in Melbourne this year, and will meet the USA's Varvara Lepchenko in the third round on Saturday. Endit