Serena Williams battles past Kristyna Pliskova to kick off comeback

ByEurosport

Updated 29/05/2018 at 20:56 GMT

Serena Williams battled hard to secure her progression through to the second round of the French Open with a 7-6 6-4 victory over Kristyna Pliskova.

Serena Williams of the U.S. celebrates winning her first round match against Czech Republic's Kristyna Pliskova

Image credit: Reuters

It was a far from easy first Grand Slam appearance back for the American, but she closed out a hard-fought win in two tight sets.

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Williams was taken to a tie-break in the opening set by the big-serving Pliskova, with the scoreline eventually 7-4 in her favour.

"I don't know how many aces there were," Serena smiled courtside after the match. "But I think money goes to charity, so donate!

"I think we raised some real money," she laughed before making her way to the exit, stopping for selfies and to sign autographs for an appreciative French crowd.

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Pliskova assumed early control with a break in the second set, but Williams refused to be dictated to and fought back.

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The 36-year-old closed out victory after a number of deuces on her serve at 5-4 with the Philippe-Chatrier crowd delighted to see her comeback win.

"I feel like a warrior in it, like a warrior princess kind of, (a) queen from Wakanda," Serena said post match, referring to catsuit she wore on court.

"I'm always living in a fantasy world. I always wanted to be a superhero, and it's kind of my way of being a superhero.

"I feel like a superhero when I wear it."

The three-time champion at Roland Garros will next take on Australian Ash Barty in the second round.

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