Venus Williams progresses past Yulia Putintseva in straight sets

Venus Williams has edged past Yulia Putintseva in straight sets to reach the third round at Wimbledon.

The veteran American, who last won the competition in 2008, sent out a statement to her rivals at SW19 by thumping compatriot Madison Brengle 6-0 6-0 in the first round.

However, tonight's encounter with the Kazakhstani provided far more of a test, but one that Williams ultimately passed with a 7-6(5) 6-4 victory in just under two hours.

Nothing could separate the duo midway through the first set as both won three games apiece, but a break of serve looked like tipping the opener in Putintseva's favour as she went 4-3 ahead.

However, Williams broke back straight away as the pair held each other to a tie-break, which the five-time champion edged 7-5.

Another break by Williams in the third game of the second set contributed to a 5-3 lead, before the seven-time Grand Slam winner eventually advanced into the third round.