Venus Williams into third round of the australian open 2017

A sharp and assured Venus Williams is relishing her time delivering where it counts on the big stages at the twilight of her career.

After an injury-afflicted exit in the opening round last year at Margaret Court Arena, the seven-time Grand Slam champion has come up with the goods in her opening two rounds at Rod Laver Arena.

Swiss qualifier Stefanie Voegele is her latest victim.

The 36-year-old Williams romped to a 6-3 6-2 victory over the world No.112, a player who had spent nearly eight hours on court already after four straight three-setters to get through qualifying and her opening round.

There was cause for caution in the aftermath, however, with Venus withdrawing from her scheduled first-round doubles match with sister Serena to manage an elbow injury.

“I was hoping to have the capacity to play both events here, but at this point I just need to be careful and just try to maintain myself,” she said.