Two years ago when the world had not been disrupted by COVID, it was Ash Barty that won the Adelaide International.

Not long after Barty had advanced to the semifinals at the Australian Open. In her way was Sofia Kenin.

Kenin broke Aussie hearts by defeating Barty before going on to lift the trophy.

The two met at the quarterfinal stage in Adelaide, this time it was Barty that dominated the match.

The world no. 1 took the match 6-3, 6-4.

When Barty landed a first serve in play she was almost perfect, winning 31 of 32 first-serve points.

Kenin had escaped her match against Ajla Tomljanovic last night after saving three match points but Barty was a class above.

Barty wrapped up the match in 1 hour and 8 minutes. Her next opponent is the winner of the match between Victoria Azarenka and Iga Swiatek.

“It felt pretty good today. I think I was able to look after my service games pretty well and it was a lot of fun playing out here again, (to) get some more court time and start to feel a little bit better,” said Barty, who has also teamed with Storm Sanders to reach the doubles semifinals in Adelaide.

“That’s what you want. Honestly, it’s nice to come out here and be tested right from the start and know that you have to bring your very best level,” said Barty, who takes none of her progress for granted.

“Obviously looking at both these last two matches there’s still work to do. We go back to the drawing board and continue try and do all the right things.

“It’s been a really solid start and were happy with the foundation that we’ve kind of set to start the year off.”

Update: Barty will play Iga Swiatek in the semifinals.