World number one Serena Williams has set up a blockbuster semi-final clash with her Russian arch-rival Maria Sharapova at the Brisbane International following her 6-3, 6-3 win over Slovakia's Dominika Cibulkova in the quarterfinals.
The top-seeded Williams did not lose a point on serve during the opening set during her comprehensive victory over Cibulkova, while, in contrast, Sharapova was forced to recover from an error-strewn start before eventually downing 2012 champion Kaia Kanepi in three sets 4-6, 6-3, 6-2.
According to Sport24, the upcoming semi-final clash between Williams and Sharapova will be the 17th meeting between the two superstars of the women's game, who make no secret of their frosty personal relationship, with Williams holding a clear advantage over the Russian, winning 14 times against Sharapova, including the last 13 in a row.
The second semi-final will be between second seed Victoria Azarenka, who beat Swiss Stefanie Voegele 6-4, 6-7 (7-9), 6-1, and fourth seed Jelena Jankovic, the report added.