Venus Williams sets up all-American semi at U.S. Open

Venus Williams's renaissance year continued on Tuesday when she downed Petra Kvitova 6-3 3-6 7-6(2) in an electrifying atmosphere to set up an all-American U.S. Open semi-final against Sloane Stephens.

The 37-year-old ninth seed, who has already played two grand slam finals this season, blossomed under pressure in a nail-biting third set to remain on course for her first major title since she won Wimbledon in 2008.

Kvitova, back to her best after a career-threatening injury sidelined her for five months, was up a break in the decider but the 13th seed allowed Williams back into the contest and the American was the more composed player in the tiebreak.

"I have to say I felt every single one of you guys behind me. That feels good and I did not want to let you guys down," Williams told the 23,000 crowd on Arthur Ashe Stadium, before adding a word for her opponent, who was stabbed in her left hand by an intruder at her home last December.

Kvitova, whose backhand return was proving tough to handle, again went ahead in the second set with a break courtesy of a winner down the line and she held for 3-0 after saving break points.

UCJ, UNILORIN.