Defending champion and top seed, Serena Williams, breezed past Amra Sadikovic at Wimbledon to book a second-round clash with compatriot Christina McHale.
Williams brushed Sadikovic aside 6-2 6-4 to secure her 80th career victory at Wimbledon, in a generally unflustered performance.
Six-time Wimbledon winner Williams had precious few troubles unseating grand slam debutant Sadikovic, the world number 148 who had retired in 2014 only to later be convinced to return to the sport.
Williams’ mother Oracene Price watched on from the royal box as the 21-time major champion launched the defence of her title in unruffled style.
“I never underestimate anyone, so it was a really good match. I started fast, so that’s a start for me; that’s about it.Mom was in the royal box so that was really nice, so I’ve got to get my dad to get out here.”
American McHale saw off Daniela Hantuchova 7-5 6-2 to secure safe passage to the second round, but also set up a daunting third career meeting with Williams.
Williams has already beaten McHale twice in 2016 and will fully expect to secure another victory against the world number 65 at SW19.
