Venus says Serena inspired her to reach final

LONDON, July 6 (Reuters) Venus Williams said her sister Serena's Australian Open win this year when ranked 81 in the world had inspired her to reach Saturday's Wimbledon final.

At 31 in the world Venus is the lowest ranked player to reach the final since computer rankings began in 1975. She already holds the record for being the lowest seed to win the Wimbledon women's title after claiming it in 2005 seeded 14th.

''I was so inspired seeing her at the Australian Open. I was like, I want to be just like her,'' she told a news conference after booking her place in the final against Marion Bartoli with a 6-2 6-4 victory over Ana Ivanovic today.

''We just motivate each other so much. Something about us, no matter what we're ranked, no matter where we are, no matter what the next person says, ultimately we just believe in ourselves, and I think that's what makes the difference.'' The sisters are both former world number ones but have suffered injury setbacks in recent years.

Asked whether it was more fun coming into the final with a lower ranking rather than as the world number one she said: ''Yeah, definitely definitely, because I've been counted out so many times.

''I've been unlucky with injuries. That happens. But I think that I've had a little spell now where I felt good. I've had a chance to get ready. It's all coming together.'' The three-times former champion will be appearing in her sixth final at the All England Club and the times she lost were both to Serena.

''I guess I'm feeling proud of myself for that stat, but I don't want to take anything for granted going into the final,'' she said.

Between them, the Williams sisters have won five of the last seven Wimbledon titles. When asked why that might be, she said: ''Williams, Wimbledon, starts with a W.'' REUTERS SZ RAI0308