Novak Djokovic surges into semi-finals of Geneva Open after Griekspoor win

Thursday, 23 May 2024 at 19:40

Novak Djokovic is through to the semi-finals of the Geneva Open albeit he faced some adversity in taking down Tallon Griekspoor in a 7-5, 6-1 win for the World No.1 as he continues his mission to get match practice in.

Djokovic’s adversity he faced in the opening set with the World No.1 facing set points at 4-5 down to Griekspoor on Thursday evening. He has not been himself at times this season, but will likely take more from a match where he weathered a storm than an easy win.

The second set was more of a simpler affair as from 4-5 down, he won nine out of the next 10 games in Geneva. That big save in particular proved pivotal for his hopes of winning through and a match that could’ve been a completely different story. The second was more of a straight forward story as he surged into a 4-0 lead and didn’t look back in his pursuit of victory.

He will now face Tomas Machac for a spot in the final. He found out his fate also for the French Open earlier today but will hope to be in Geneva until the end of the week. Pierre Hughes Herbert, the French veteran will await him in Paris.

The other side of the draws will be set later this evening with Sebastian Baez and Casper Ruud in action in the landmark tie. But for now Djokovic’s route through is sorted and he is two games down in his mission of sealing a pre Roland Garros title as a huge confidence boost.

"Great win. I thought that the first set could have gone his way easily because I think he was the better player for most of the first set," Djokovic said in his on-court interview admitting that it could’ve been a completely different tie. "He had three set points. I was facing 0/40 at 5-4 for him, so we could have been having a completely different direction of the match if he converted those set points."

"I was lucky to find some really good serves and from that moment onwards really played some good, solid tennis," Djokovic said. "He did help me a bit with the mistakes, I think [the way] I played the second set was really good. So I want to thank everybody again for the support and presence today on a cold day. It's really nice to see you all."

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José Morgado

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Novak Djokovic saves four set points at 4-5 in the first set and then wins 9 of the next 10 games to reach the semifinals in Geneva. 7-5, 6-1 over Tallon Griekspoor. Gets Tomas Machac tomorrow