Serena Williams has reached the US Open semi-finals after shaking off a sluggish start to overcome eighth-seeded Karolina Pliskova 6-4, 6-3 on Tuesday.
The six-time champion at Flushing Meadows, who gave birth one year ago, is chasing a record-equalling 24th major title.
It was not an easy win for the American superstar, who roared back after surrendering an early break to Pliskova.
“I just wanted to play better,” Williams said of her mindset as she trailed 3-1 in the first. “I was thinking, you know, I can play better, so that was the good news.”
Williams finished the match with 13 aces and will take on Anastasija Sevastova for a place in the final.
The 19th-seeded Latvian had earlier defeated the defencing champion Sloane Stephens 6-2, 6-3.
