Australian Open 2019: Serena Williams makes a sensational start
What's the story
23-time women's singles Grand Slam winner Serena Williams raced into the Australian Open 2019 second round in Melbourne. The veteran tennis star brushed aside Germany's Tatjana Maria 6-0, 6-2 in straight sets. It took her only 49 minutes to seal victory. Williams is eyeing a joint-record 24th Slam honor. She won her last Slam here in 2017 while being pregnant. Here's more.
Serena's memories
"I have so many good memories of the last time"
The legend is looking to equal Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Slam titles. Serena went past former legend Steffi Graf (22 Slams) in 2017. "I have so many good memories of the last time I was here," said Williams in her post-match press conference. "It was literally the best win of my career, so it's just good to get back."
Quote
A new feeling for Serena this time around
"I'm glad that I was able to come out and do what I needed to do. The last time I was here I was pregnant and playing at the same time, so it's kind of weird walking back on by myself this time."
Twitter Post
Serena playing solo this time
Playing solo this time 😉 pic.twitter.com/hKa4pmTNSM
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) January 15, 2019
Round one
Serena shows her dominant self in the opening match
Williams, the 16th seed, won her first set in just 18 minutes. She fired 22 winners during her opening match. The seven-time Australian Open winner will face Canada's Eugenie Bouchard next. The women's singles star eased up slightly in the second set, before showing her dominance to win it by style. Maria left the court in tears after her drubbing.
Serena vs Bouchard
Serena wary about Bouchard in second round
Meanwhile, Serena's next round opponent Bouchard won her opener convincingly. The former Wimbledon finalist posted a comprehensive 6-2, 6-1 win over China's Peng Shuai. Serena is wary about the 24-year-old Canadian tennis player. "She does everything well, and I really like that she doesn't quit," Serena said. Serena reached the finals of the Wimbledon and US Open 2018 and is in great form.