Serena Williams relieved to reach second round of Australian Open

World number one Serena Williams has admitted her relief at reaching the second round of the Australian Open.

The American avoided a shock in the opening round on Monday as she eased past wildcard Ashleigh Barty 6-2 6-1.

"It was a little tricky out there," the WTA's official website quotes Williams as saying.

"It's good to get through that match. She could be a potentially dangerous opponent. She's really good. So I'm just really happy to finish that one."

Williams will now face Serbian world number 104 Vesna Dolonc for a place in the third round.