The 2004 champion, who missed the event last year through injury, extended her winning streak at Indian Wells to ten consecutive victories as she beat Dulko 6-3, 6-2.

"It was a strange match. Not a lot of rhythm, not too many rallies. It's been for me my last three matches in the night, so I was feeling a bit tired, too,” the Belgian world number three was quoted as saying by the tournament’s official website.

Henin-Hardenne, who suffered only one defeat this season to Amelie Mauresmo in the Australian Open final, admitted she was thrilled with her victory even if she didn’t show her best form.

“I, for sure didn't play my best tennis, but it's good to win that way sometimes against this kind of player. That's very important," said the reigning French Open champion.

The 23-year-old star next takes on fourth-seeded Russian Elena Dementieva, who overcame a bad start against eighth-seeded Serb, Ana Ivanovic to grab a 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 win.

Dementieva, who advanced to the semi-finals despite serving 14 double faults against Ivanovic, will be looking to reach her second final at a Tier I event of the season as she won the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo earlier this year.

Third-seeded Maria Sharapova and 19th-seeded Martina Hingis will open the semi-final action on Center Court on Friday, as they face-off for the third time this season.