Serena Williams put the disappointment of 2012’s early exit behind, powering through this year’s opening match against Anna Tatishvili 6-0, 6-1 at the Roland Garros.
Last year’s defeat was Williams’ only early first round defeat at a Grand Slam, losing to world number 111 Virginie Razzano.
The American has admitted that the loss was a huge blow, which marked a turning point as she went on to win Wimbledon, London Olympic, the US Open and since the beginning of the year has racked up a career- best winning run of 25 matches.
William laid the ghost of Roland Garros in an emphatic style; she needed just 51 minutes to beat the Georgian Tatishvili, ranked 83rd, on an autumnal Court Philippe Chatrier.
It took Tatishvili 33 minutes to get on the scoreboard as Williams dominated in all areas.
A screaming backhand winner gave Williams an eighth straight game, followed with a fist pump, at which moment it was clear to all that the American was well motivated for a second French Open title since winning her first in 2002.
The Georgian has only won twice since the beginning of the year, but did at least slow Williams’ progress in the second set down. Notwithstanding, it took the top seed less than an hour to complete the job.
Williams, a 15- time Grand Slam champion remains unbeaten on clay this year.