U.S Open: Jabeur becomes first African to reach semis

Fifth-seeded Ons Jabeur is the first-ever African woman to make the U.S. Open semi-final.

Jabeur held on for a 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over Ajla Tomljanovic at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Tomljanovic earlier eliminated Serena Williams in the third round.

Jabeur said the victory “means a lot to me,” believing her feat can inspire other young players from Africa.

Jabeur will play Caroline Garcia – who beat 18-year-old American Coco Gauff.

The 28-year-old Jabeur apologized for throwing her racket at times during the match.

“I wanted to keep calm but the racket kept slipping from my hands.”

The Tunisian was a Wimbledon finalist this season.

“I know that I have it in me that I can win a Grand Slam.”

Jabeur and Tomljanovic are close friends and exchanged a lengthy hug at the net following the match.