Argentina crushes Spain to open United Cup, China eyes breakthrough

SYDNEY, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- Argentina swept Spain 3-0 on Friday in Perth, Australia, to kick-start the season-opening United Cup, an ATP-WTA event where China will strive to make a breakthrough to advance beyond the quarterfinals.

In searing conditions, Sebastian Baez gave Argentina the perfect start after beating Jaume Munar 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 43 minutes.

The 45th ranked Baez defied Munar, who fired