Williams, whose Wimbledon wins in 2002 and '03 are among her seven major titles, fended off five break point chances in the first set and converted on her only opportunity on set point when French Open quarterfinalist Kanepi double faulted.
Williams, seeded sixth, broke Kanepi's serve once in the second set and served out at love.
Williams came on wearing a white belted, thigh-length raincoat, or Mackintosh. But there was no rain in sight, so she hung the jacket on her chair. Kanepi, meanwhile, wore dark sunglasses throughout the match.
Williams, whose Wimbledon wins in 2002 and ’03 are among her seven major titles, struggled in the first set. She fended off five break points against the French Open quarterfinalist.
The turning point came at 5-5 when Kanepi had a break point for 6-5. Williams attacked and put away a forehand volley smash, letting out a shout and pumping her fist. She held serve and Kanepi double faulted on set point in the next game. Williams was in command throughout the second set.
Defending women’s champion Venus Williams begins a bid for her fifth Wimbledon title Tuesday against wild card Naomi Cavaday of Britain.
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