Former champion Simona Halep sets up Wimbledon semi-final clash with Elena Rybakina

Former champion Simona Halep sealed her place in the semi-finals of Wimbledon after an impressive straight-sets win over American Amanda Anisimova on Wednesday.

The Romanian followed up her demolition job of fourth seed Paula Badosa in the previous round by swatting aside Anisimova – seeded 20th – 6-2, 6-4 on Centre Court. Halep, 30, extended her winning streak at the All England Club to 12 matches.

The 16th seed will now take on Elena Rybakina in the last four after the Kazakh came from a set down to defeat Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic 4-6, 6-2, 6-3.

Former world No 1 Halep triumphed in SW19 three years ago but has endured a rocky time since and failed to defend her title in 2021 due to a calf injury.

Form and fitness have been hard to come by for the Romanian, who suffered a panic attack at the French Open in May to highlight her continuing struggles.

Grass has always been good to Halep, though, and the confidence appears to be flowing once again after a convincing triumph over a player 10 years her junior.

“It's great to be back in the semi-finals,” said Halep. “I'm very emotional right now. It means a lot. I played a tough opponent today – she could crunch the ball in the end.

Silky smooth touch from @Simona_Halep