World number two Simona Halep reached the US Open semi-finals for the first time in her career after defeating Victoria Azarenka in thrilling three sets at Flushing Meadows.
The 23-year-old Romanian overcame 20th seed Azarenka 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 in a rain-interrupted battling contest that lasted two hours and 40 minutes, the Guardian reported.
Although Halep clinched the first set with ease, two-time US Open finalist Azarenka wrestled her way back into the game to secure the next set and maintain a 2-1 lead in the decider before rain stopped the play.
However, a revived Halep then went on to win five of the next seven games to win the thrilling decider.
Halep will next take on Italy's Flavia Pennetta in the US Open semi-final.
