Serena Williams displayed a wide range of emotions as she fought her way through to the third round of the French Open, laughing at moments and criticizing herself at others.

The American, 39, defeated Mihaela Buzarnescu of Romania to win 6-3, 5-7, 6-1. Williams always appears to be an upset waiting to happen on clay, but the deciding set showed tremendous composure from her.

Now she will battle her countrywoman Danielle Collins.

Serena Williams showed a full range of emotions as she hauled herself through to third round

‘It was kind of fun, it’s always good when you enjoy your job,’ said Williams, who regularly threw her arms up in mock frustration and celebration. She has not advanced beyond the last 16 in Paris since 2016.

The decent weather has suited big hitters and servers and two American giants, John Isner and the even taller Reilly Opelka, have made it through to the third round.

Isner now presents a stiff test for Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is favourite in the draw’s bottom half. Cam Norrie, Britain’s sole singles hope, will try for a third round match against Rafael Nadal when he takes on South African Lloyd Harris.