Perry downs lacklustre Hantuchova

Perry is finally living up to her potential after turning pro in 2000

Fifth seed Daniela Hantuchova was dumped out of the Bank of the West Classic by rising US star Shenay Perry.

The 22-year-old, enjoying her best season so far on the WTA Tour, saw off the Czech star 6-2 0-6 6-3 in Stanford.

"It felt great but I didn't feel that much pressure out there," said Perry, who was the only American to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

Perry meets compatriot Jill Craybas meet in the second round - they are the last US players left in the event.

Currently ranked 49th in the world, she added: "Coming here and having to qualify was a good thing.

"Playing in the heat helped me test my stamina. Getting three matches under my belt might have helped me win tonight."

World number 17 Hantuchova said: "I saw her at Wimbledon so I knew it would be a tough match.

"But it was more about me making way too many mistakes and not playing well at all. I know I have a lot of work to do."