Nadal beats Djokovic as rivalry resumes in Rome semifinals

ROME (AP) — Rafael Nadal was challenged in the first set by Novak Djokovic before pulling away for a 7-6 (4), 6-3 win to reach the Italian Open final on Saturday.

In their 51st meeting but first in more than a year, Nadal's court coverage eventually proved too much to handle for Djokovic, who is still regaining his form from a persistent right elbow injury.

"That was a tough battle, a good level of tennis, a combination of good tactics and great shots from both of us," Nadal said.

On the women's side, top-ranked Simona Halep rallied past three-time Rome champion Maria Sharapova 4-6, 6-1, 6-4 and will again face Elina Svitolina for the trophy.

Svitolina comfortably passed Anna Kontaveit 6-4, 6-3 in the other semifinal.