Schiavone is first Italian woman in Grand Slam semis in Open era

Francesca Schiavone achieved a landmark victory for Italy on Tuesday after upsetting third seed Caroline Wozniacki 6-2 6-3 to reach the semifinals of the French Open.

The 29-year-old used her clay-court experience to secure victory in 80 minutes, becoming the first Italian woman in the Open era to reach the last four of a Grand Slam event.

Schiavone, the 17th seed, took full advantage with three service breaks in the first set and after breaking for 5-3 in the second she completed victory with a superb smash.