Australian Open women - Serena Williams crushes Vera Zvonareva in straight sets

Serena Williams continued her quest for a 19th Grand Slam title with a second-round win over Russia’s Vera Zvonareva, 7-5 6-0.

Serena Williams has set her sights on a sixth title
Serena Williams has set her sights on a sixth title

The American vented her frustration while trailing in the opening set, but staged a swift comeback to continue her bid for a sixth title at Melbourne Park.

Williams had easily defeated the Russian in the 2010 Wimbledon final, but her old foe was not going to be brushed aside on this occasion and claimed two breaks in the opener.  

Unable to conceal her anger, Williams bellowed after blasting a forehand into the crowd and was forced to defend two set points while serving at 4-5.

This precarious position prompted an instant response from the world No 1, who cannoned down two aces to save the set and then reeled three games, including two breaks, to move 1-0 up.

Having seized control, Williams then dominated her 30-year-old opponent and quickly set up a clash with Spaniard Garbine Muguruza in the next stage.

"She started out really well, she was really aggressive and I was a little too passive," said Williams, who is hoping to take her Grand Slam tally to 19.

"Once I got down I thought 'Serena, you've done so well here you've got nothing to lose, just have fun and enjoy yourself' - then I started to play a lot better.

"I had to kind of snap into that. I think in the beginning of the tournament every player feels a little sluggish; at least I do. Now I'm feeling like I'm starting to hopefully feel better."