MIAMI: World number one Serena Williams launched her bid for a ninth Miami Open crown Thursday by defeating US compatriot Christina McHale 6-3, 5-7, 6-2 to reach the third round.
The 34-year-old defending champion, who like all seeds received a first-round bye, will next face Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan, who ousted Australian Daria Gavrilova 7-5, 6-3.
Williams seeks her fourth consecutive title at the combined WTA and ATP hardcourt event.
