Venus gives US lead against Netherlands

With sister Serena watching on from the sidelines after being selected for the team, the American veteran proved too strong for Rus as she put the home side 1-0 ahead.

The Czech Republic, winners in five of the last seven years, ended day one of their tie against Switzerland 2-0 ahead after Petra Kvitova beat Viktorija Golubic in three sets before Barbara Strycova eased past Belinda Bencic.

Venus Williams, 37, was a big favourite against world number 138 Rus but was still relieved to claim her 776th career win.

"It's never easy and it's always a challenge," Venus said.

"On paper, today I looked like I should win but it was a battle and I'm glad to get through that."

Twenty three-times grand slam champion Serena has not played a competitive match since winning the 2017 Australian Open, since when she has become a mother for the first time.

She is pencilled in for doubles action.

Elsewhere, Belarus were locked at 1-1 with Germany while France and Belgium were also level going into Sunday's action.

Elise Mertens, an Australian Open semi-finalist last month, gave Belgium the lead with a 6-2 6-1 victory over Pauline Parmentier but Kristina Mladenovic beat Kirsten Flipkens 6-2 6-4.