Reigning China Open champions Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams experienced contrasting fortunes at the tournament Friday, with the men’s top seed powering through to the semifinals, while Williams withdrew injured.
Djokovic, who has an incredible 100 percent record at the $5.4 million tournament, beat fifth seed Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-4.
The world number one was again highly emotional on the Diamond Court at China’s National Tennis Centre, smashing his racket twice in the second set in frustration.
The Serb broke his Bulgarian opponent’s service twice in the first set, after saving three break points in the third game.
He appeared to be heading for a routine victory at 5-3 and serving for the match in the second set, but Dimitrov broke serve to temporarily halt Djokovic’s advance.
Djokovic, who has an incredible 100 percent record at the $5.4 million tournament, beat fifth seed Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-4.
The world number one was again highly emotional on the Diamond Court at China’s National Tennis Centre, smashing his racket twice in the second set in frustration.
The Serb broke his Bulgarian opponent’s service twice in the first set, after saving three break points in the third game.
He appeared to be heading for a routine victory at 5-3 and serving for the match in the second set, but Dimitrov broke serve to temporarily halt Djokovic’s advance.