Djoker tames Ferrer, in semis

Serbia’s world number one triumphed 7-5, 7-5 and advanced to a meeting with big-serving American John Isner, who overpowered Japan’s world number five Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-3.

Djokovic, the defending champion and winner of the Indian Wells title less than a fortnight ago, came from two breaks down in the first set as Ferrer celebrated his 33rd birthday with a runaway start. But Djokovic reeled him in to take the first set and served for victory leading 5-4 in the second.

Ferrer was having no part of it. He broke Djokovic, but was broken himself a game later to let Djokovic again serve for the match. Djokovic now owns eight straight wins over the Spaniard, winner of three titles already this season.

“David is one of the toughest opponents, I knew the match would be physical. He gives you nothing and makes you work for every point. My strategy was to try and dominate from the baseline, but stay alert for chances to come to the net. It was a tough match, but one that I enjoyed. The next round will be totally different against Isner, who has one of the best serves in the game,” said Djokovic.

The tense moments against Ferrer followed Djokovic’s great escape against Alexandr Dolgopolov, who was up a set and a break in his fourth-round loss to the Serb.