ATP world no.2 Novak Djokovic edged past no.6 seed and defending champion Andy Murray 7-5, 6-3 in a gripping encounter on Wednesday afternoon to reach the semi-finals of the Sony Open Tennis, an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 tournament in Miami.
It was the pair’s 20th meeting, Djokovic now leads their ATP Head2Head series 12-8.
Novak experienced a brief lapse in concentration at 5-5 in the opening set. He double-faulted twice to give Murray his first break opportunity. However, three strong serves got him out of trouble, and then he broke Andy to love for 7-5.
Nole was broken in the fifth game of the second set, but he regrouped quickly and responded by winning four games in a row, improving to a 15-2 record on the season.
The three-time former titlist (2007, 2011-12) landed 73% of his first service points and converted three of his six break points, surrendering serve once during a 90-minute clash.
“In the second, when I was broken, I felt I still had chances and believed I could win in straight sets,” said Djokovic. “I think I was calmer in important moments where he wasn’t. He lost his composure, made unforced errors and allowed me to win.”
Match statistics: aces (7-1), double faults (3-5), winners (19-16), unforced errors (21-29), total points won (70-56).
Novak next faces no.20 seed Kei Nishikori of Japan who upset fifth-seeded Roger Federer in three sets – 3-6, 7-5, 6-4. They are tied in career H2H, 1-1.
The 26-year-old Belgrade native is bidding to win the Indian Wells-Miami title double for a second time. He achieved the feat in 2011.
Photo: AP
