Williams loses in Dubai

American Venus Williams was a shock casualty on the opening day of the Dubai Women’s Open.

Williams, the fifth seed, was knocked out in the first round by Italy’s Silvia Farina Elia, losing 7-5 7-6 (8/6).

It was the first appearance for Williams since being defeated by France’s Amelie Mauresmo in the final of the Proximus Diamond Games in Belgium two weeks’ ago.

Farina Elia’s best result this season was a semi-final showing at the season-opening Gold Coast event. She also reached the fourth round at the Australian Open.