MELBOURNE — The last time Serena Williams played the Australian Open in 2017 she won the title while, unbeknownst to spectators, she was in her first trimester of pregnancy. This time around she’s a mom on a mission with the quest ahead a 24th Grand Slam title, which would tie her with record-holder Margaret Court. A victory here would also increase Williams’ Open Era record of Australian Open titles to eight and be her first Grand Slam victory since she won here two years ago. Williams flew past fellow mom, Tatjana Maria of Germany, 6-0, 6-2 in 49 minutes. The two are friends and neighbors in their Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, neighborhood. When both are in town, Maria says the two families will often enjoy a barbecue together. “I think the last time I was here I was actually pregnant and playing at the same time, which is insane,” Williams told the crowd. “It feels good walking back on this court, by myself this time. Read more: http://bit.ly/2McCZI3