This archive report was first published on 9 July 2019.
On Tuesday, July 9, 2019, seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams secured her 12th semi-final appearance at the prestigious tournament with a thrilling 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win over unseeded American compatriot Alison Riske.
Williams, 37, who is two victories away from matching Margaret Court's record 24 Grand Slam singles titles, faced a tough challenge from Riske, who had previously beaten world number one Ashleigh Barty.
"It was really satisfying," Williams said, reflecting on her performance. "I wouldn't have won that match a couple of weeks ago."
Despite a sometimes leaden-footed performance, Williams managed to seal the match with an ace, securing her 97th win at Wimbledon and avoiding the same fate as Barty.
Williams' victory was met with excitement as she celebrated with her supporters, including her sister Venus and husband Alexis Ohanian, in the players' box.
"I was really pumped, it was for a place in the semis at Wimbledon -- that doesn't happen every day and it's a long, arduous road," Williams exclaimed.
