Halep made light work of Danka Kovinic in her third-round clash at John Cain Arena, thrashing the Montenegrin 6-2 6-1 to reach the second week for a fifth consecutive year.

After an injury-ravaged 2021, Halep kicked off the year in style, triumphing in the Melbourne Summer Set and is yet to drop a set in her three matches at the Open.

Admitting she'd been "super agitated and super nervous on court" last year, a more "stable" Halep believed she was in her best form for a while.

Her run shapes as a well timed one, with third seed Garbine Muguruza and sixth seed Anett Kontaveit both making unexpected second-round departures from Halep's quarter of the draw.

"I feel great physically, first of all. Mentally I'm confident and also strong, I would say," Halep said.

"Feeling the game. Feeling joy out there. That helps me to be positive and to be confident that I have a chance every time I step on the court. Playing well.

"I feel I'm in a good spot. I really trust that I can play good tennis here.

"I feel fresh. I feel that the pressure is off. I feel also that I have expectations from myself, but they are good expectations because I have worked a lot in the off-season.

"I have no injuries. That helps me to be in a good spot mentally and also with confidence."

Halep fought through a fierce start from Kovinic to power through the opening set in 29 minutes, then the second in 35.

Wearing a red dress for the first time since her 2018 run to the final, Halep has had just three hours and 39 minutes of court time across three rounds - a far less arduous opening week.

"Physically is much better. I have to admit that," the former No.1 said.

"I remember 2018 when after the first week I was dead. Now I feel better."

Halep expected a tougher assignment against Alize Cornet in the fourth round, after the French veteran fought back from a set and 4-1 down against 29th seed Tamara Zidansek to win 4-6 6-4 6-2.

"It's always been tough match against Alize," she said.

"I expect actually a tough battle. She's fighting till the end and she never gives up. I am the same, so hopefully will be a nice match."

Australian Associated Press