Aus Open: Serena survives first round scare

Defending champion booked her place in the second round with a testing three set win over Li Na.

Defending champion Serena Williams booked her place in the second round of the Australian Open with a testing three set win over China's Li Na on Monday.

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It was her first competitive victory since September 2 when she beat Italy's Francesca Schiavone in the third round of the US Open.

Injuries have sidelined her since and the heavy breathing and sweat pouring off her body suggested she still has work to do to reclaim full fitness.

Williams, who has slipped to 13 in the world rankings, ground down her feisty opponent for a 6-3, 6-7 (1/7), 6-2 triumph.

She next plays Camille Pin of France.