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Jankovic into Stuttgart final with victory over Venus

05/10/2008

Jelena Jankovic is in with a chance of claiming back-to-back title on the women's tour after beating Venus Williams in the semi-final of the Porsche Grand Prix in Stuttgart.

Jankovic fought back from a set down to beat Williams 6-7 (8/10) 7-5 6-2 and will now face Russia's Nadia Petrova in the final.

The Serbian had two pain-killing injections in an injured toe before the start of the match and made a slow start. Williams earned a number of break points during the first set but was not able to capitalise on any of them.

In the tie-break to settle the first set Jankovic held a set point but the American held her serve, and her nerve, to deservedly clinch the first set 10/8.

The improved performance in the tie-break appeared to galvanise Jankovic and she aced out to a 3-1 lead at the start of the second set.

However, Williams fought back to 3-3 and the Wimbledon champion also saved break points in the seventh game.

Just as the second set looked to be heading into a tie-break like the first set Jankovic pulled out an excellent game to break Williams at a vital moment to seal the set and force a decider.

The third set remained a close affair but the world number two was able to capitalise on her opportunities while denying Williams whenever she threatened.

Jankovic broke Williams at the start of the set for a 2-0 lead and then saved break points in the third and fifth games. She then broke Williams for a second time to lead 5-2 and secured the win on her own serve when Williams sent a forehand long.