DEFENDING champion Serena Williams raced into the third round of the French Open along with Belgian fourth seed Justine Henin-Hardenne. However, Slovak ninth seed Daniela Hantuchova and former champion Yevgeny Kafelnikov headed for the exit.

SERENA WILLIAMS got the successful defence of her French Open title off to the perfect start on the opening day as she streaked into the second round with a 6-2, 6-1 win over Barbara Rittner of Germany to be joined by rivals Amelie Mauresmo and Justine Henin-Hardenne.

The seedings for the 2002 Wimbledon Championships have been announced by the All-England Club in London.

Serena Williams has promised to play a true match after setting up a fantasy French Open final with sister Venus.

Three-time champion Monica Seles became the first woman to reach the French Open quarter-finals today at Roland Garros as she disposed of Daniela Hantuchova.