Serena Williams has "nothing to lose" against Victoria Azarenka

Serena Williams has insisted that she has "nothing to lose" when she takes on world number one Victoria Azarenka in the semi-finals of the Olympics on Friday.

The American fourth seed blasted her way past Caroline Wozniacki on Thursday to secure a berth in the last four.

"I love playing Victoria, so it will be fun," the 30-year-old told reporters. "I have nothing to lose, she is world number one.

"That's what I love, playing when I have nothing to lose so there is no pressure. No matter what happens I am in a medal round now so I'm excited."

Azarenka made her way into the semi-finals thanks to a straight-sets victory over Angelique Kerber.