MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) Venus Williams has advanced to the second round of the Australian Open, beating Sara Errani of Italy 6-3 6-2.
The fifth-seeded Williams, who lost the 2003 final to her sister Serena, made the fourth round or better at all four Grand Slams a year ago. Her match Monday was delayed briefly in the final set for the roof at Hisense Arena to be closed when rain began.
Errani continued a losing trend, dropping her 18th straight match against top 10 players.