World number one Serena Williams overturned a one-set deficit against Sloane Stephens to advance through to the quarter-finals of the French Open this afternoon courtesy of a 1-6 7-5 6-3 victory.
The two Americans, who are known to share a fractious off-court relationship ever since 22-year-old Stephens beat Williams at the 2013 Australian Open, were on court at Roland Garros for two hours and four minutes.
However, following a lacklustre opening set from Williams, it seemed that it was only going to be a short encounter as Stephens took just 25 minutes to win through.
The second set was much more of an even contest, though, and having successfully held her serve to remain in the match at 5-4 down, Williams rallied to force a third set.
A combination of Williams upping her game and Stephens tiring saw the number one seed control much of the decider, which she eventually won thanks to a break of serve. In doing so, it extended her winning streak in deciding sets in 2015 to 10 matches.
Williams, who is a two-time champion in Paris, will now face Sara Errani in the last eight.
Liam Apicella
