Tennis: Graf back in the groove

STEFFI GRAF, the world No 1 from Germany who is aiming for her 10th title of the season, defeated Natalia Zvereva 6-2, 6-4, in the first round of the Virginia Slims Championship at Madison Square Garden, New York, on Wednesday night.

Graf, beaten by the American, Lori McNeil, in the first round last year, has now beaten her Belarussian opponent in all 13 matches they have played. Graf now faces South Africa's Amanda Coetzer.

Graf showed no sign of back or foot injuries after undergoing foot surgery a month ago. 'I have no pain. I'm physically fit right now,' Graf said.