Venus Williams 'still in love' with the game

Venus Williams has insisted that her desire to succeed remains after her first-round victory over Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor at the Australian Open.

The 34-year-old, who won the last of her seven Grand Slams in 2008, began her 15th professional campaign in Melbourne with a 6-2 6-2 triumph.

Seeded 18th for the tournament, the American may not set the same high expectations that she did earlier in her career, but is still motivated to win at every opportunity until she decides to call it a day.

"I love the game, I love the thrill, I love the 'Go Venus'," she told reporters.

"It takes a lot of work to get to this level, so while I can play I'm going to play, when I can't I'm going to watch it on TV."

She added: "My whole goal is to win my match, it's just that simple, no one gives it to you,

Williams, whose best performance at the Australian Open was beaten finalist against sister Serena Williams in 2003, will play either compatriot Lauren Davis or Serbia's Aleksandra Krunic in the second round.