Serena Williams fights past Ana Ivanovic to reach Italian Open final

Serena Williams had to hold off a fightback from Ana Ivanovic to reach the final of the Italian Open this afternoon.

The top-seeded American had to save an early break point in the first game but then breezed through the opening set 6-1.

Ivanovic turned the tables in the second, breaking Williams twice on her way to a 4-0 lead before claiming the set 6-3.

The Serb couldn't replicate that form in the decider though and was blown away by Williams, who won it 6-1.

She will now face home favourite Sara Errani in the final tomorrow.