LONDON: Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska downed China’s Li Na on Tuesday to set-up a Wimbledon semifinal against Sabine Lisicki, the slayer of Serena Williams.
Fourth-seeded Radwanska, the highest seed left following the exit of defending champion Williams, Victoria Azarenka and Maria Sharapova, beat Li, the sixth seed, 7-6 (7/5), 4-6, 6-2 in a gripping two-hour, 43 minute contest which was completed under the Centre Court roof.
Radwanska, the runner-up in 2012, took victory on an eighth match point.
The 24-year-old Pole, who had gone into the quarterfinal with a 4-6 losing record against Li, also overcame an injury scare when she needed her right thigh tightly-strapped at the start of the deciding set.
“Li played unbelievable tennis. I was just happy to get through after struggling in the final set,” said Radwanska who had also needed three sets to beat Tsvetana Pironkova in the fourth round.
“I have played so much tennis in the last few days, that’s why I have the problem.”
Radwanksa and Lisicki have played twice on the WTA Tour, winning a match apiece.
“We have known each other since our junior days — it’ll be a great challenge on grass,” said the slender Pole.
Li Na fired 58 winners in Tuesday’s quarterfinal match but was undone by 40 unforced errors. (Agencies)