Seven-time champion Serena Williams reached her 12th Wimbledon semi-final on Tuesday with a hard fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 victory over unseeded American compatriot Alison Riske.
The 37-year-old Williams, who is two wins away from equalling Margaret Court's Grand Slam singles title record haul of 24, looked far from convincing as Riske pushed her the whole way over an engrossing two-hour duel.
However, Williams served it out with an ace to seal her 97th win at Wimbledon and avoid the same fate as world number one Ashleigh Barty, who Riske beat on Monday.
"It was really satisfying," said Williams, whose clay court season was affected by a knee injury.
"I wouldn't have won that match a couple of weeks ago.
"I'm glad that I was able to come through. She beat so many great players. She was really so close to taking the win today."
"She was playing her heart out and she had nothing to lose and I realised neither did I."
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content