4 Jan 2014

Serena prevails over Sharapova

6:10 am on 4 January 2014

The world number one tennis player Serena Williams has maintained her hold on Maria Sharapova, downing the four-time grand slam champion 6-2 7-6 (9-7) in the Brisbane International women's semi-finals.

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Williams booked a title showdown with world number two2 Victoria Azarenka after clinching her 14th straight win over Sharapova, who last tasted victory over the American in 2004.

Two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka survived a scare against former world number one Jelena Jankovic to claim the opening semi-final 1-6 6-3 6-4.