American Steve Johnson is through to the second round of the ASB Classic, after a 6-4 6-3 win over French veteran Stephane Robert on Monday.
The 36-year-old Robert is the oldest player in the draw, but belied his age with some brilliant work from baseline and clever touch play.
But the class of Johnson, who was almost a decade younger than his opponent, eventually shone through.
The world No 33 served 11 aces in a powerful display, where he also exhibited a gazelle like speed in running shots down.
Johnson will face either Karen Khachanov or Yen-Hsun Lu in the next round.
