Tsvetana Pironkova upsets Venus Williams at Wimbledon

Tsvetana Pironkova (Photo: Bruno Girin)

Tsvetana Pironkova says beating Venus Williams to reach the semi-finals of Wimbledon is “like a dream.”

The 22-year-old world No.82 produced an inspired performance to overcome the five-time Wimbledon champion in straight sets 6-2 6-3 to set up a semi-final clash with Russia’s Vera Zvonareva.

“It’s like a dream,” Pironkova told BBC Sport after her victory. “Coming here I never thought I’d play that well and come this far in the tournament.”

“I think I played pretty well today, I’m very happy with my game.

“I had won one over her before and I actually thought I could win today, so I was going for it.

The unseeded Bulgarian, who had previously never made it past the first round at SW19, went on to describe her affection towards The Championships.

“I love this tournament,” she added. “Every time I come here I enjoy it a lot.

“I like the atmosphere and I just try to relax and enjoy every moment that I have here.”