'Been a long road': Kim Birrell 'totally speechless' after booking quarter final spot at Brisbane International

Kim Birrell has advanced to the quarter finals of a tournament for the first time in her career, defeating Anastasia Potapova in straight sets at the Brisbane International.

The 26-year-old Australian proved too strong for her Russian rival, securing a spot in the next round with a 7-6, 6-2 victory on Pat Rafter Arena.

Birrell has battled through plenty of injuries during her career and was overcome with emotion when speaking to Nine after the match on Thursday afternoon, receiving plenty of love from the home crowd and her family.

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"I'm totally speechless," she said.

"Gosh, to play here is so special and to play well and have all of you guys behind me, it just means the world. I hope that I can keep going and make you guys proud.

"It's been a long road, I have had a few injuries - as does everyone - and I've been super lucky to have such an incredible family and team behind me.

"They believed in me when I didn't even think I was gonna get back on court … they are pretty much the only reason why I'm back playing at this level today."

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Having already knocked off second seed Emma Navarro in the second round, Birrell managed to survive a tough first-set tiebreak against Potapova.

From there, the Aussie put the foot on the pedal and steamed towards victory.

"She's a quality player and credit to her, she played so well in the big points," Birrell said.

"I just kept telling myself to keep going, I was creating opportunities and eventually I thought I was gonna get there. When I got to the tiebreak, I felt like I had been on top the entire set and felt like I was quietly confident.

"When I got that break in the second set, it felt so good. 

"I just want to enjoy this moment and then take some time with my team. I really believe in the way that I'm playing and anything can happen - especially in the first week of the year and playing at home. I can't wait to get back out here."

Birrell will be back in action at the Brisbane International on Friday.