Serena Williams has declared that she is relishing the prospect of facing Victoria Azarenka in the US Open final on Sunday night, in a rematch of last year's clash between the pair at Flushing Meadows.

Williams eased through to the final with a straight-sets win over Li Na earlier tonight, while Azarenka overcame Flavia Pennetta in her semi-final with similar ease.

The 31-year-old thanked the crowd at the Arthur Ashe Stadium following her semi-final success over Li, while declaring that Azarenka will provide a stern test once again this weekend.

She told reporters: "It was a good match, Li Na is really great player and it was tough at the end. I got a little nervous but I was able to close it out finally.

"I've been really focused and trying really hard. to constantly hear go serena makes me feel so special, I really mean it so thanks very much.

"We always have really good matches I look forward to it. She's a great player and she lifts her game whenever it counts and that's what matters."

Victory over Azarenka would give Serena her 18th Grand Slam singles title and a fifth US Open crown.