A below-par Heather Watson has been defeated by Tsvetana Pironkova in the Australian Open first round.

After winning in Hobart last week, Watson came into the first Grand Slam of the year in top form but the British number one, who needed treatment during the match, was easily defeated 6-4 6-0 by the world number 52.

Watson got off to the worst possible start against the Bulgarian as she lost her opening service game, but she looked threatening on her opponent's serve and promptly broke back to level at 2-2.

However, the 22-year-old was performing below her best and after falling a double break behind, the trainer was called and provided Watson with smelling salts.

They initially worked as Watson hauled her way back to 5-4, but after Pironkova served out the set she immediately went a break ahead in the second set.

Watson fought on valiantly but after Pironkova swept into a 4-0 advantage, there was only going to be one winner as the Guernsey hitter bowed out at the first stage for the second year in a row.