Shenzhen, China - World number one Simona Halep began the year in emphatic style with a 6-4, 6-1 victory over Nicole Gibbs as Maria Sharapova also romped through her first-round match at the Shenzhen Open on Monday.

Russian superstar Maria Sharapova on Wednesday vowed to appeal a two-year doping ban which looks certain to end one of sport's most celebrated and high-profile careers.