The 23-time Major champion Serena Williams made a strong start in Melbourne, defeating Laura Siegemund 6-1, 6-1 in 56 minutes in her 100th Australian Open match.
Serena did everything right on both serve and return, leaving that shoulder injury behind her and taking 12 of the last 13 games to save the energy for some more formidable rivals in the next rounds. Speaking about the match, Serena said she was pleased with the way she competed, always finding that extra gear while playing at Majors.
"This was a good start, vintage 'Rena.' I think I'm pretty good at pacing myself in a Major. I was happy to get through it. I wasn't sure how my serve would be after a little bit of that shoulder, but I'm feeling good. Last year was very crazy for the world, and to be able to do what I love and come out and compete and play at a Major after the last 12 months makes me appreciate the moment even more.
I was inspired by Flo-Jo, who was an outstanding track athlete. She was a fantastic athlete for me growing up and watching her fashion, which was always changing. Her outfits were always amazing, so that's where we started. We made some changes and tweaks to it, and it became this," Serena Williams said.