Novak and Daniil met for the 11th time in a highly anticipated semi-final match at the Astana Open on Saturday. The two players were level at one set apiece, 4-6, 7-6 (6), when the second seed decided to pull out due to a leg injury.
Novak Djokovic recorded a 6-3, 6-1 victory against world no. 34 Botic Van De Zandschulp on Thursday to advance into the last eight at the ATP 500 event in Astana, Kazakhstan. Number 4 seed will face Karen Khachanov (RUS) in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Fourth seed Novak Djokovic started his quest for a fourth tour-level title of the season in style on Wednesday, beating world no.81 Cristian Garin 6-1, 6-1 to reach the second round at the Astana Open.
Novak will compete at the ATP 500 event in Astana as a wild card entry. The Serb is a fourth seed and will face world no.81 Cristian Garin (CHI, H2H 2-0) in the first round.
