Venus Williams recorded her longest winning streak, 15th consecutive victory, since 2004, beating Marion Bartoli of France in semifinals 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the final at the Miami masters on Thursday.

Her opponent will be the winner of a late Thursday match between Belgians Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin, both back from retirement.

No. 3 Williams took charge from the start against the No. 13 seed Bartoli, needing only 11 strokes to win the first eight points. A shaky Bartoli double-faulted four times to lose the sixth game.

Venus Williams advances to the final at the Miami masters on Thursday

Bartoli's play steadied as the match progressed, and her two- handed forehand did some damage. Williams fell behind 3-1 in the second set, then began to move forward more aggressively. She went 8 for 8 on points at the net in the second set.

Williams hit eight winners to sweep the final three games and served out the match at love, helped by a pair of aces.

Venus Williams advances to the final at the Miami masters on Thursday

Sister Serena missed the tournament with a knee injury that has sidelined her since she won the Australian Open.

With a record of 19-1 this year, Venus is bidding for her third consecutive title after winning at Dubai and Acapulco in February.

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