World No.2 Novak Djokovic has moved into the semi-finals of the Rome Masters. The second seed defeated old nemesis Juan Martin del Potro in straight sets 6-1, 6-4.
Djokovic played a lights out first set on Friday in heavy conditions which took del Potro’s weapons away. After Djokovic dropped just one game in the opening set the match was suspended with del Potro leading on serve 2-1.
When play resumed in the early Sunday afternoon, the conditions were drier, but with a noticeable breeze around the Court Centrale. Djokovic used a tactic of engaging in a backhand to backhand rally. The Serbian employed heavy topspin to drag the tall Argentinian off the court. If del Potro managed to retrieve the ball, Djokovic would then drive the ball up the line into the unprotected forehand wing.
Djokovic earned the early break for 3-2, pinning del Potro in the backhand, before a skillful drop shot saw del Potro fail to catch up. del Potro had a immediate breakback point after an untimely Djokovic double fault, but missed a backhand into the net.
Djokovic then held the rest of the way without another break point. He did struggle at times, unsure whether to come in or stay back, and was caught by del Potro once or twice, but not enough to affect the outcome.
It was the first time since 2013 that Djokovic has managed to defeat del Potro in straight sets and ensures that he is still alive this week in his quest to win his second title of the season. He won an early event in Doha over Andy Murray.
Djokovic wil now take some rest before taking to the court again later this evening when he takes on Dominic Thiem, who earned revenge over Rafael Nadal for his Madrid final loss by defeating the Spaniard in straight sets yesterday.
Before Djokovic and Thiem get underway young German Alexander Zverev and American John Isner, both first time semi-finalists at this event, play the top half match.
