Mauresmo starts Wimbledon defence with easy win

LONDON, June 26 (Reuters) Fourth seed Amelie Mauresmo got her Wimbledon title defence off to a speedy start with a 6-1 6-3 victory over Jamea Jackson in 63 minutes today.

Mauresmo had an early scare when Jackson, the world number 158, had a break point in the opening game. However, she saved that with an ace and the American put her next service return into the net.

After that it was business as usual for Mauresmo, who displayed her grasscourt skills in front of a chilly Centre Court only two thirds full.

Jackson grew in confidence in the second set, approaching the net more often and saving three break points at 4-2 down but in the end the 20-year-old was no match for the champion.

Reuters TB VV1938