Sharapova shows steel again

Maria Sharapova last night maintained her remarkable record in deciding sets to defeat Marion Bartoli and reach the US Open semi-finals for the first time since winning the title six years ago.

Not since her third-round loss to Flavia Pennetta here 12 months ago has Sharapova lost a three-set match, winning 12 out of 12 this season.

She was pushed to the limit by Bartoli, however, who had led 4-0 before rain forced the match to be postponed on Tuesday, but eventually came through 3-6 6-3 6-4 to set up a meeting with world number one Victoria Azarenka.