Intro:

Defending champion and top seed Serena Williams beat 11th seed Ana Ivanovic 6-1, 3-6, 6-1 to reach the final of the Italian Open at the Foro Italico on Saturday (17 May).

Script:

Serena Williams faced Ana Ivanovic for a place in the Italian Open final on Sunday.

Despite Ivanovic's recent resurgence, Williams cruised to take the first set 6-1.

However, the Serbian found her touch that has brought her back within touching distance of the World Top 10. She powered a forehand past Serena to take a double break in the set.

And Ivanovic took her first set point opportunity, 6-3. And into the decider.

However, just as Ivanovic stormed into a telling lead in the second, Serena did just the same to the Serbian.

Taking a double break herself to lead at 4-0.

An exchange of serves followed, however there was nothing Ivanovic could get on the Serena serve.

6-1, 3-6, 6-1 it finished.

Serena now has the task of Sara Errani and most likely the whole of the Italian crowd in tomorrow's final.