Serena Williams gets a rare test from Giorgi but holds on (Yahoo Sports)

Serena Williams’ vast experience proved the difference during an extremely tight first set against Italy’s Camila Giorgi in a 7-6 (5), 6-2 win for the United States in a Fed Cup playoff. Wearing red, white and blue, the top-ranked Williams was put to the test as she kicked off her clay season in front of a hostile crowd Saturday. ”I competed well,” the 33-year-old Williams said. I’ve been working really hard my whole life, so maybe it was just experience.” Neither player broke serve in the first set, which was only decided when Giorgi missed two straight forehands to end the tiebreaker.