Serena Williams withdraws ahead of Ashleigh Barty clash

Serena Williams defeated Danielle Collins in three sets to reach the Yarra Valley Classic semi-final, setting the thrilling clash against world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty.

Still, the American will not play against Barty on Saturday, experiencing a shoulder injury and deciding to take a couple of days off ahead of the Australian Open that starts on Monday.

Serena defeated Daria Gavrilova, Tsvetlana Pironkova and Danielle Collins to reach the semis, although we won't see her in action tomorrow. Williams defeated Collins 6-2, 4-6 10-6 in an hour and 36 minutes, losing serve twice and delivering three return games from 12 opportunities.

Danielle saved three break chances in the opener's sixth game and wasted the same number in the next one before Serena grabbed the third break for 6-2. Collins moved in front with a break at 3-3 in set number two and saved three break points in the next game to confirm the lead and sealed the set 6-4 when Serena netted a backhand.

Williams placed a forehand winner in the match tie break to open a 5-1 gap and another at 8-4 to extend the lead. Williams landed another direct point from her stronger wing at 9-6 to move over the top and notch the season's third victory.