World No 1 Serena Williams stepped up her bid for her first Indian Wells title in 15 years with a 7-6 (2), 6-0 victory over Yulia Putintseva on Sunday.

Two-time Indian Wells champion Williams had a difficult time with Putintseva in the opening set but then steamrolled through the second to wrap up the win in 75 minutes.

"The first set was a little tricky, then I had to find my inner tiger and roar," Williams said.