Fourth seed Novak Djokovic powered into his sixth semi-final of the season on Friday by defeating Karen Khachanov 6-4, 6-3 on the Astana Open.
Novak served exceptionally properly all through the match. He gained 85% of factors on his first serve (29/34).
The Serbian star capitalised on three of his 5 break level possibilities in opposition to the big-serving Russian, and saved one of many two break factors he confronted en-route to a one hour, 28-minute victory.
“I didn’t play as properly from the baseline as I did within the first two matches, however nonetheless it was sufficient,” mentioned Djokovic. “I managed to supply some good tennis when it was essentially the most wanted in each units.”
Match statistics: aces (3-2), double faults (1-4), winners (15-13), unforced errors (9-27), complete factors gained (65-45).
Novak holds a 6-4 lead in opposition to his semi-final rival Daniil Medvedev. The second seed from Russia defeated Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut in straight units 6-1, 6-1.
Looking forward to the problem, Nole mentioned: “I’m anticipating a bodily battle. I do know that I’ve to be able to play very lengthy factors. Hopefully, I can serve properly. That’s going to be necessary. I do know he’s going to serve rather well, he’ll have some free factors on his first serve. Going to attempt to get some returns in play, make him play, make him uncomfortable. I do know the ways, however I don’t need to speak about it an excessive amount of within the media – reserve it for the match.”
Picture: AP
