World number 18 Flavia Pennetta could be on course for a surprise victory in the WTA Kremlin Cup after knocking out Venus Williams.
The 26-year-old Italian - 40/1 with Ladbrokes to win the Moscow tournament – defeated sixth seed Williams 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 to book her place in the second round yesterday.
"I have never won this title, but I just had a day where I could not control my game," the vanquished American said after losing to Pennetta for the third time in four meetings.
New world number one Jelena Jankovic is the strong favourite to win the Kremlin Cup at 5/2 with Ladbrokes.
The Serbian player received a bye into the second round in Moscow and faces Vera Dushevina on Thursday.
A surprise victory for the 22-year-old Russia is rated at 6/1 by Paddy Power, which also makes Daniela Hantuchova 9/4 to win her second-round match against number seven seed Vera Zvonareva.
World number 18 Flavia Pennetta could be on course for a surprise victory in the WTA Kremlin Cup after knocking out Venus Williams.