Serena Williams relishing Victoria Azarenka rematch in US Open final

Serena Williams has declared that she is relishing the prospect of facing Victoria Azarenka in the US Open final on Sunday night, in a rematch of last year's clash between the pair at Flushing Meadows.

Williams eased through to the final with a straight-sets win over Li Na earlier tonight, while Azarenka overcame Flavia Pennetta in her semi-final with similar ease.

The 31-year-old thanked the crowd at the Arthur Ashe Stadium following her semi-final success over Li, while declaring that Azarenka will provide a stern test once again this weekend.

She told reporters: "It was a good match, Li Na is really great player and it was tough at the end. I got a little nervous but I was able to close it out finally.

"I've been really focused and trying really hard. to constantly hear go serena makes me feel so special, I really mean it so thanks very much.

"We always have really good matches I look forward to it. She's a great player and she lifts her game whenever it counts and that's what matters."

Victory over Azarenka would give Serena her 18th Grand Slam singles title and a fifth US Open crown.