"I usually never quit. It's a Serena-ism" - Serena Williams on saving set points to advance in Paris

Three-time champion Serena Williams kicked off her Roland Garros campaign on Monday night, overcoming Irina -Camelia Begu to advance to the second round.

The World No.8 faced two set points in the first set tie-break, but displayed the grit and fighting spirits that fans are so accustomed to as she won four straight points to clinch the tie-break, and eventually prevail with a 7-6(6) 6-2 victory over the Romanian.

"I'm happy I was able to save those moments," Williams said after the match. "I did not want to lose that first set. I wasn't thinking at the moment. I was just thinking to get that ball out the air, because I've been hitting some good swing volleys in practice."

The American sported some unique shoes during her match, as they were emblazoned with a slogan, written in French: "Je ne m'arreterai jamais" which means "I will never stop". When asked about their significance, Williams responded by saying she was inspired by her favorite band, Green Day, and their 'Dookie' album.

"It's just fun, really" Williams added. "I usually never quit. It's a Serena-ism."

The 23-time Grand Slam champion faces Mihaela Buzarnescu in the second round of the French Open, as the Romanian defeated Aranxta Rus in the opening round.