King of Clay Rafael Nadal was ruthless on clay yet once more today as he absolutely annihilated career long rival Roger Federer en route to clinching his seventh title here on the red dirt of Rome.

World No. 1 Serena Williams capped a perfect week of tennis on Sunday by beating third-seeded Victoria Azarenka comprehensively 6-1 6-3 and claimed her fifth title of the season by winning the 2013 Rome Open title.

There are individual performers in tennis who dominate this sport to such an extent that it achieves a whole new level of competitiveness and quality. And, there are rivalries in this sport, which make it so appealing and global by striking the right chord with its lovers, trespassing every barrier. If tennis has evolved into such a worldwide acclaimed sport, it is not only because of the exceptional players of past and present, but much has been contributed by the epic-rivalries between best players. They test, push and beat each other to keep the essence of this sport alive, which makes it such a phenomenon among fans. Today at Rome Masters, another chapter will be added to the great Rafa-Roger rivalry. Brace yourself for this battle.

Intensity peaks up to a different level amidst the deafening roar of a packed crowd as mesmerizing tennis takes the center-stage to celebrate this game in the best possible way. This is what happens when a resolute warrior tries to wield the power of a torrent force, cultivated with a sole purpose to subdue opponent. It is not just a battle of skills anymore, only sheer defiance will pave the path for victory. Expect the unexpected and brace yourself to savor sublime tennis, when American hurricane Serena Williams will square off against the Belarusian powerhouse Victoria Azarenka in the final of the 2013 Rome Open today.

World no.3 Roger Federer wasn't at his sublime best today versus his opponent Benoit Paire, but was still good enough to tame him in straight sets in the pair's Rome Masters semifinal here in the Italian capital. The victory of the Swiss over the Frenchman also means that the fans will witness the 30th chapter of the Roger-Rafa rivalry as the two will meet in a dream final tomorrow at the Foro Italico.