Rafa Nadal is one win away from a fifth title since returning from injury after the Spanish world number five thumped compatriot Pablo Andujar 6-0 6-4 to reach the Madrid Open tennis final.
With his customary strapping on the troublesome left knee that sidelined him for seven months until February, home favorite Nadal was in scintillating form.
In the women's draw, Serena Williams, set up a clash against Maria Sharapova or Ana Ivanovic in the final.
The world number one and defending champion swept past Sara Errani 7-5 6-2.
