NEW YORK -- Six-time US Open champion Serena Williams defeated 80th-ranked Danka Kovinic at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday night, 6-3, 6-3, opening what could be her last tournament with authority.
Arriving to the pre-match practice court amid cheers from bystanders at 6:20 p.m., Williams gave fans an opening night to remember, defeating an opponent who came into the match, saying she was "honored" to play in such an important event.
"It's a privilege to share the court with Serena," Kovinic said in an interview at Flushing Meadows on Friday. "I just really hope that I can show my good game.