article_snippet: American wildcard Tim Smyczek was among those advancing as the men began play on Thursday, but two-time champion Daniela Hantuchova was among those eliminated on the second day of women's action.
article_snippet: The 2002 and 2007 winner was a 6-4, 1-6, 6-3 loser to Klara Koukalova of the Czech Republic.
article_snippet: Vera Zvonareva, the 2009 champion, also lost, 6-1, 6-1 to qualifier Polona Hercog of Slovakia, and Chinese qualifier Lin Zhu ousted 2010 French Open champion Francesca Schiavone of Italy.
article_snippet: the men will conclude the men first round on Friday, while the women begin second round play, highlighted by Serena Williams's return after a 14-year absence.
article_snippet: Serena Williams's will face Monica Niculescu of Romania on Friday night.
article_snippet: two-time champion Daniela Hantuchova hits a forehand during two-time champion Daniela Hantuchova three-set loss to Klara Koukalova on Thursday .
article_snippet: Serena Williams speaks to the media during a press conference at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden .