French Open 2018: Simona Halep to face Sloane Stephens in Roland Garros final after duo ease to straight set wins
The world No 1 beat Garbine Muguruza 6-1 6-4, while the American beat compatriot Madison Keys 6-4 6-4
SIMONA HALEP has the chance of winning her first Grand Slam title when she faces Sloane Stephens in the French Open on Saturday.
The world No 1 eased to a 6-1 6-4 win against 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza to advance into her third Roland Garros final.
Halep, 26, lost to Jelena Ostapenko in the showcase event last year, while she also suffered defeat against Caroline Wozniacki in the Australian Open final in January.
She will come up against current US Open champ Stephens, who edged out her American compatriot Madison Keys to win 6-4 6-4.
Speaking after her win against Spanish ace - and favourite Muguruza - Halep declared that was arguably her best ever performances on clay.
She said: "I think I played one of my best matches on clay."
Halep needed just 36 minuted to win the opening set after racing into a 5-0 lead.
While Stephens was left delighted with her masterclass over Keys - the opponent she beat to win her maiden Grand Slam title last year.
KING OF CLAY Rafael Nadal completes comeback at Roland Garros as he beats Diego Schwartzman to advance into semi-finals
She said: "It's always hard playing someone from your country and your friend. I was pleased to get through that and play some good tennis.
"This is one of my favourite tournaments. I've got another great opportunity on Saturday and I'm really looking forward to it."
