Wimbledon 2016: Serena, Venus Williams and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga proceed to second round

WTA No.1 Serena Williams began her defense of the Wimbledon championship to an error-strewn 6-2 6-4 first-round victory over Amra Sadikovic on Tuesday.

Williams landed an uncharacteristically modest 4 aces and made 5 double faults. She 19 winners and 18 unforced errors against world No 148 Sadikovic.

Looking ill-at-ease, as though her quest for an elusive 22nd grand slam title was weighing heavily on her shoulders, Williams struggled with her serve and sprayed balls wide on both sides of the court. She served three double faults in the fifth game of the first set.

“I never underestimate anyone,” said Williams, “It was a really good match but I don’t think it was tougher than I thought. It was definitely tough, but I always expect the best from everyone.” Serena Williams proceeds to the second round where she will meet Christina McHale.

Meanwhile, older sister Venus, also proceeded to the second round after beating Donna Vekic 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 on Monday. At 36, Venus Williams is the oldest woman in the main draw of this year’s tournament and first won Wimbledon in 2000. Her vast experience proved decisive as she saw off Vedic in a hard-fought clash lasting one hour and 52 minutes on Court One.

World number 8 Venus Williams will play Greek qualifier Maria Sakkari for a place in the third round.

Also reaching the second round with straight-set wins was Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

Tsonga defeated Inigo Cervantes 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4. He will play either Taro Daniel or Juan Monaco in the next round.

Source: Agencies