Venus closes in on Serena showdown

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2005

LONDON (AFP) — Venus Williams took another step closer to a possible Wimbledon fourth round showdown with sister Serena by easing past Australian veteran Nicole Pratt 7-5, 6-3 in the second round.

Williams, the 14th seed and champion here in 2000 and 2001, struggled to overcome the feisty Pratt in an absorbing contest featuring long, bruising rallies.

Her win keeps her on course for a potential fourth-round meeting with Serena, the 2002 and 2003 winner.

The younger Williams faces Italian Mara Santangelo on Centre Court later Thursday in her second round clash.

Venus survived a major scare against Pratt, who held nine break points against the American, but could only convert one.

Pratt also saved two match points against the former world No.1,...