Sixth seed Venus Williams advanced to the final of the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships with a three-set victory over sister Serena. Venus beat Serena 6-1 2-6 7-6 after winning a third set tiebreak 7-3.
The world No.1 and top seed Serena Williams was the first player to take a set off Venus Williams this year in Dubai. Winning the 19th meeting with her sister, Venus now leads their all-time series 10-9.
By reaching the semifinals, Venus Williams is projected to move into the Top 5 for the first time since the week of August 25, 2003.
In the title match of the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, Venus will play a surprise finalist Virginie Razzano, who advanced by defeating Kaia Kanepi in the semifinals. Interestingly, the last time Razzano played Venus Williams, she saved three match points and won.