Simona Halep has reached her third French Open final and held on to the world No.1 spot with victory over Garbine Muguruza.
The Romanian is yet to win a grand slam title but looks ominously ready to break her duck at Roland Garros.
Slam chance: Simona Halep celebrates her semi-final win over Garbine Muguruza.
Photo: AP
Muguruza had hammered Maria Sharapova in the quarter-final but Halep was a different proposition entirely — and it seemed she knew it. A nervous start from Muguruza was immediately pounced upon by Halep for a break in the opening game.
Half an hour later 1-0 had become 6-1 and the challenge of Muguruza, who would have taken over at the top of the rankings with victory, appeared to be fading fast.
She improved in the second set, breaking early on only to be pegged back at 4-4 before Halep held a marathon ninth game and broke for a 6-1 6-4 win.
Advertisement
Down and out: Muguruza ratcheted up the intensity in the second set but failed to take full advantage after gaining a break of serve.
Photo: AP
"I'm really, really happy that I won this match," said Halep, who lost to Jelena Ostapenko in the final last year.
"It was really important for my mind to know I could win against a great opponent.
"It's a pleasure to play here. I'm happy to play the final again at my favourite grand slam. I'll try my best and hopefully do better than last year."
Halep will face the winner of the all-American showdown between Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys.
Most Viewed in Sport
Morning & Afternoon Newsletter
Delivered Mon–Fri.
