Williams sisters into quarters

NEW YORK (AP) -- When you hear about SerenaandVenus Williams overpowering opponents, as happened Sunday at the U.S. Open to two recent Grand Slam finalists, it's easy to forget that the sisters are, indeed, individuals.

And as similar as their on-court styles might seem, all stinging serves and gargantuan groundstrokes, they are not quite carbon copies.

That point was driven home by their father and coach, Richard, who sat courtside for the final game of Serena's 6-3, 6-4 victory over Wimbledon runner-up Marion Bartoli, then watched Venus' 6-4, 6-2 win against French Open runner-up Ana Ivanovic.

"Serena reminds me of a pit bull dog and a young Mike Tyson, all in one," Dad said Sunday. "Venus reminds me of a gazelle that's able to move, prance and jump. Venus looks as if she is really enjoying herself out there more than Serena is right now. If they get by everyone and meet each other, it will be an interesting match."

Another all-Williams showdown is indeed nearing at Flushing Meadows, although unlike six previous meetings for major titles -- Serena leads 5-1 in those finals, Venus leads 7-6 overall -- this one would be a semifinal.

"That would be awesome because it would mean that there is a Williams in the final," Venus said. She also noted: "We have one more step."

For Serena, it's a familiar one. She will face No. 1 Justine Henin in the quarterfinals at a third consecutive major, having lost to her at the French Open and Wimbledon.