Serbia's Ana Ivanovic still believes she is good enough to win the biggest titles in the women's game.
Serbian targets a return to the top
Ana Ivanovic still believes she is good enough to win the biggest titles in women's tennis despite failing to reach the semi-finals of any of her last 18 Grand Slam singles tournaments.
The 24-year-old Serbian is currently No.12 in the world and despite enjoying a consistent year, regarding improved form, she has not won a WTA Tour event during 2012.
Ivanovic was world No.1 four years ago, after winning the French Open, before quickly sliding down the rankings following a sudden loss in form.
However, she claims she remains ambitious and after reaching the second round of the Pan Pacific Open said: "I've already achieved two of my biggest dreams in winning a Grand Slam and being number one in the world.
Believe
"But I believe I can still be at the top level and winning Slams. Otherwise I wouldn't be here."
On Monday, she beat Andrea Hlavackova who was forced to retire with a thigh injury after just 44 minutes. The No 11 seed was leading 6-3 2-0 at the time.
Nine of the world's top 10 women are competing this week - the exception is Serena Williams - with the top eight seeds receiving byes into the second round.
Meanwhile, Marion Bartoli of France beat local favourite Kimiko Date-Krumm 6-1 6-4.
The Japanese player - who won the title in 1995 - will celebrate her 42nd birthday later this week.
