Q. Flavia, it looked like an easy match, especially in the first set.
FLAVIA PENNETTA: It was easy on paper but there was a lot of tension on the court. It might not have been that obvious because we try to hide it, but I was stressing out a little. In the beginning and the end. It's never easy to play against a friend, but I'm happy with the way it turned out.

Q. Your serve worked very nicely today.
FLAVIA PENNETTA: Yes, I served pretty well today and on Wednesday, as well. I hope it I can keep it up.

Q. You must be very happy to get to the Open GDF SUEZ semi-finals for the first time.
FLAVIA PENNETTA: I sure am!

Q. Who would you rather play against, Safarova or Peer? At the moment, it looks like a victory for Safarova. Do you know what kind of technique to use against her?
FLAVIA PENNETTA: I don't have a preference. They're both good players, so it will be tough against either one. I just have to play my game and try to be aggressive from the start. But for now, I haven't really thought about it.

Q. How are you feeling right now?
FLAVIA PENNETTA: Pretty good. Despite a fall towards the end of the match, I'm feeling pretty well. I love the colour and the feel of this court. I'm good.

Q. It's a good week to be in Paris, do you like the city?
FLAVIA PENNETTA: I sure do! Paris is so beautiful. It's the city of love! It's quite different this time of year. We're used to seeing it in May or June during the French Open. It's cold out, but the city is still beautiful.

Q. One word about the tribute to Amélie Mauresmo. What do you think of her? Did you like the event, and Francesca Schiavone's speech and its little joke? (Editor's note: Schiavone told Amélie Mauresmo to not come back to the circuit)
FLAVIA PENNETTA: I have always thought that Amélie was a great player. But she is also a very nice person. I always felt good with her on the circuit. It was sort of sad for me to see her go. But she seemed so serene and happy, that I'm glad that she made this choice. It's good to move on to other things. In any case, you have to stop sometime. As for Francesca's joke, it was phenomenal! She expressed herself very well. They've played each other so many times that she is in a good position to speak about Amélie. Her joke was perfect! (laughter)

Q. And her speech was very moving?
FLAVIA PENNETTA: Yes, because it came from the heart. She would never say things she doesn't feel.