Melitina Staniouta, pictured earlier this year, led the way in qualifying action in Berlin ©Getty Images

Gold medal favourites Ganna Rizatdinova and Melitina Staniouta led the way as qualifying action began at the Berlin Masters rhythmic gymnastics World Cup event.

Belarus' World Championship bronze medal winner Staniouta secured first place in the ball event with 18,750.

She finished ahead of Russia's Dina Averina, with 18,700, and compatriot Katsiryna Halkina, with 18,550.

Rizatdinova, Ukraine's European Championship bronze medallist, was similarly impressive in the hoops event, leading with  18,900 points. 

Averina finished in second place once again, this time with 18,800, while Georgia's Salome Pazhava qualified third with 18.450. 

Ganna Rizatdinova of Ukraine was the qualification leader in the hoops event ©Berlin Masters Rhythmic Gymnastics
Ganna Rizatdinova of Ukraine was the qualification leader in the hoops event ©Berlin Masters Rhythmic Gymnastics

Japan qualified first in the group competition.

They scored 17,850 to beat Germany, with 17.550, and Finland, with 17.330. 

The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) World Cup event is one of the final major competitions ahead of Rio 2016.

A total of 19 countries set to have gymnasts competing in the individual event in the Max-Schmeling-Halle.

Individual clubs and ribbons qualification is due to take place tomorrow along with group hoops and clubs competitions.

All the finals are then scheduled for Sunday (July 3).