Having performed this function, Rodina quietly disappeared, and its leader was rewarded with the job of ambassador to NATO.

ECONOMIST: Russia's regional elections

Elsewhere, qualifier Evgeniya Rodina claimed victory over sixth-seed Elena Vesnina 6-1 3-6 6-2 in an all-Russian contest at the Olympic Stadium.

CNN: Kirilenko knocks Radwanska out of Kremlin Cup

Second seed Jelena Jankovic of Serbia beat Russian Evgeniya Rodina 6-3 6-1.

BBC: Caroline Wozniacki beats Patty Schnyder in Charleston