Venus hits top form in Warsaw Cup
WARSAW, Poland -- Venus Williams crushed Russian Vera Zvonareva 6-3 6-2 on Saturday to reach the final of the $585,000 Warsaw Cup WTA tournament.
The American number two seed, whose world ranking plunged to 16th last season because of injuries, won six straight games to take the first set.
She now meets Russia's Svetlana Kuznetsova, the number four seed who beat Italy's Francesca Schiavone 6-3 6-2.
"I think this has been my best match (this week), where I've been able to move my best." Williams said.
"I've had so many frustrations, injuries and breaks, and it proved that hard work and a little hope are worth it.
"In the rallies I always felt I was in control, even when I was on the defence. I was definitely able to attack her serve."
Kutznetsova was also in good form against Schiavone, who had knocked out number one seed and defending champion Amelie Mauresmo of France.
After she dropped her serve to love in the opening game, it was a comfortable victory for the fourth seeded Russian as she reached her third WTA final of the campaign.
Although the players were evenly matched, Kuznetsova's forehand, often hit down the line, gave her the edge.
She immediately drew level at 1-1 when Schiavone hit her second double-fault, and a crucial second break came at 4-3 when a heavy forehand forced an error from Schiavone.
After serving out for the set, Kuznetsova broke to lead 2-1 in the second. Schiavone then called for the trainer, who treated her right leg for cramps. Upon the re-start, the advantage swung wildly from one player to the other.
Kuznetsova won the next six points as Schiavone struggled to reach the ball, but she then dropped the next seven.
Regaining control, Kuznetsova then won nine of the next 10 points to break again for 5-2, before serving out.
