Jones edges Barthel in three sets to reach US Open qualifying final

Francesca Jones came through a swinging three-setter against Mona Barthel, 7-6 1-6 6-2, in the US Open qualifying semifinals. The Briton took a tight opening set in a tiebreak, was blown away in a one-sided second, then steadied to control the decider. Barthel's serve told the story: nine aces but 16 double faults and only 47.1 per cent of first serves landed, leaving her scrambling on a second delivery that won just 42.6 per cent of points. Jones was steadier at 57 per cent first serves in and 50 per cent behind her second, and moved within one win of the main draw.