Tennis super-mum Serena Williams raced into the Australian Open second round like taking candy from a baby.
Seeking an unprecedented eighth crown at Melbourne Park, but first since 2017, Williams powered past Czech teenager Anastasia Potapova 6-0 6-3 in just 58 minutes on Monday.
“It was good. I felt like I started out really well. Played really strong in the first set, and just kept building on that,” the American said.
“I feel like I can still improve and get better throughout this tournament, for sure. This is a good stepping stone for right now.”
Williams had endured a three-year title drought before winning in Auckland 10 days ago in front of daughter Olympia to underline her intentions to finally match Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 singles majors.
“It was amazing,” Williams said.
“I hadn’t been able to win as a mum, it was nice to be able to win a tournament with a two-year-old.
“It was really special for me – and hopefully for her.”