BRINDISI, Italy — Nineteen Grand Slam titles. Nearly 20 years as a professional. An undefeated record this year. And not one career loss in the Fed Cup.
Serena Williams' vast experience proved the difference during an extremely tight first set against Italy's Camila Giorgi in a 7-6 (5), 6-2 win for the United States in a Fed Cup playoff.
Wearing red, white and blue, the top-ranked Williams was put to the test as she kicked off her clay season in front of a hostile crowd Saturday. The end result, though, was quite familiar.
"I competed well," the 33-year-old Williams said.