Serena Williams sets up all-American Rome final with Madison Keys
Serena Williams warmed-up for her title defence at Roland Garros by beating Madison Keys in the final of the Italian Open.
The world No 1 American triumphed 7-6 (7-5) 6-3 in 84 minutes, although she was pushed all the way by her young compatriot – especially in the opening set.
Keys made a superb start in Rome breaking serve in the opening game, before being pegged back in the sixth.
And these were the only breaks of serve ahead of the tie-break which was also nip and tuck until Williams sealed the opener on her first set point.
The 34-year-old then raced into a three-nil lead in the second set, thanks to a brace of service breaks.
