“Me and Francesca (Schiavone) always have a battle and the match was a lot closer than two sets suggests – I really had play consistent in the second set and not make many mistakes in the tie-break.

“Francesca is a tough opponent who has lots of experience so I am really pleased to win this match.

“I’m feeling better each match and Urszula (Radwanska) will be a tough opponent. I know she has come back from injuries so that is great to see her doing well again.”

- former World No. 1 Kim Clijsters after her quarterfinal victory over Francesca Schiavone at the UNICEF Open