Novak Djokovic defeated his good friend Vasek Pospisil 7-6(5) 6-3 in Tel Aviv to secure the semi-final of the ATP 250 event.
Winning this event would be important for Djokovic because he needs the points in order to secure a place in Turin and also to build up his confidence. It took quite a few hits this year due to his inability to play a lot of events.
It was a sturdy test and certainly one that Djokovic expected but he was very happy after the win:
“It was a great, positive win. Vasek is one of my best friends on the Tour. We have known each other for many years. It is never easy playing someone you respect so much and like so much, but we are both professionals and wanted to win the match and you can see that."
Djokovic added:
“I think the level of tennis was really high. Especially towards the end of the first set and the second set. Credit to him for fighting. Great to see him back.”
The Serbian will face Safiullin tomorrow for a place in the final.