Lleyton Hewitt beat Slovakia's Karol Kucera 6-2, 6-7, 6-3 to bring Australia level in their Hopman Cup tie on Thursday.

The former world number one was lightning quick around the court, showing no sign that an ankle tweak he had taped as a precaution on Wednesday was causing any problem.

Hewitt's win drew Australia level at 1-1 after Alicia Molik had earlier retired injured leading Daniela Hantuchova 6-3, 3-0.

With Australia already qualified for Saturday's final of the $A1 million mixed team event, Molik decided to take no risks after appearing to hurt her left foot.

The Australians forfeited the mixed doubles as Molik wanted to be 100 percent for the final.

Hewitt was pleased with his performance ahead of the Australian Open beginning on January 19. It was his third straight win here this week.

"I am happy with the progress I am making," he said. "It is good work coming into the Open. I felt like I really took it up a notch."