Novak Djokovic is two from two at the ATP 250 event in Athens. The Serb faced Nuno Borges in the quarter-final and prevailed 7-6, 6-4 in an hour and 43 minutes for a place in the last four.
Like against Alejandro Tabilo in the first round, Novak had to dig deep to emerge at the top in the first set. He claimed it in over an hour and provided a single break in the second set to seal the deal.
The veteran struggled physically, especially after more demanding exchanges. However, he managed to keep his strength and seal the deal without spending more time on the court.
Novak dropped 12 points in his games and defended both break points to keep the pressure on the other side. He seized one of five break points and made the difference in the pivotal points.
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The Serb landed 22 winners and 20 unforced errors. He fired 28 service winners and stood strong from the baseline. Borges attacked more but sprayed too many unforced errors.
The Portuguese saved break points in games two and eight of the opening set. He missed those two break points in the ninth game that could have sent him in front.
The set reached a tie break, and Novak provided three mini-breaks for 7-1 and a boost. The Serb served well in the second set and delivered five comfortable holds. Nuno experienced right knee issuesand got broken in the seventh game.
Djokovic served well in games eight and ten, sealing the deal with a hold at 5-4 to move over the top and reach the semi-final.
