Driven Venus has roadworthy mission in Melbourne

Driven Venus has roadworthy mission in Melbourne Melbourne - Venus Williams might have been driven to distraction at the Australian Open, but the tribulations were nothing compared to the American's trials experienced on Melbourne roads.

Williams has been trying her luck with left-lane driving and gaining some experience in a city where tram lines make for difficult conditions, as they say on court.

"I drive everywhere," said the 28-year-old with seven Grand Slam titles. "I drive to Fitzroy. I've driven to St Kilda. I've driven downtown.

"I make that wide turn [around the halted trams]. I get lost. I take detours. I double-back, and I succeed."

And the Florida player's final goal for this visit: "I want to try a [fast-food] drive-through - that's next."

Williams said that it has taken her "about 10 years" to become comfortable driving on the left.

"I have a lot of confidence now," she said. "It's much more fun driving here than at home because there it's a chore and here it's like a luxury - kind of like an adventure.

"You might not know the way, but you still get there." (dpa)

Regions: