Djokovic to Adelaide International semi-final over Shapovalov

Novak Djokovic faced stiff resistance from Denis Shapovalov in Adelaide but he was able to outplay the Canadian to take the match in two sets 6-3 6-4.

Djokovic expected a really tough matchup against Shapovalov because the Canadian generally plays him quite close. This match was certainly quite similar in that regard as the Serbian won in straight sets but it was anything but easy. Shapovlaov played better than Djokovic at the start as the Serbian had to save a couple of break points.

After enduring that slow start, Djokovic started to find his spots much better and quickly broke Shapovalov in the best possible time. It was 5-3 for Novak and he proceeded to end the et 6-3. The second one opened with Djokovic taking an early break but Shapovalov also pulled it back not long after that.

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Djokovic kept applying heavy pressure on his opponent and eventually he was able to break Shapovalov once more. In the final game of the match, Djokovic faced a 15-30 situation but remained calm and served out the match 6-4. A good win for Djokovic against an inspired opponent.