Federer, Djokovoic power into Shanghai Masters semis

The quarter-finals of the ongoing ATP Shanghai Masters saw top two seeds Roger Federer and Novak Djokovoic advancing into semi-finals with straight sets wins here on Friday.

Defending Champion Federer knocked out 8th seeded Kei Nisshikori of Japan 6-4, 7-6(4) in one hour and 51 minutes with 10 aces, reports Xinhua news agency.

The world No. 2, who is chasing for the 99th career title, broke twice to seal the opening set.

In the second set, Nisshikori recovered to fight from 1-3 behind force a tie-breaker, but the net cord gave favour to the 20-time Grand Slam winner in the decisive moment. Federer nailed the chance with backhand winner and superior shot to close out the match.

The 37-year-old Swiss will next play 21-year-old Borna Coric, who overcame Australia's Matthew Ebden 7-5, 6-4.

Earlier in the day, second seeded Djokovoic beat Kevin Anderson of South Afica 7-6(1), 6-3 in the rematch of the 2018 Wibledon final.

In the first set, both players held out all their services games, but Djokovoic earned four straight points in the tie-breaker to take the lead. Then the 31-year-old Serbian dominated the match to break early in the second set and concluded the one hour and 43 minutes battle with strong hold of serve.

Back in winning from the elbow surgery at the start of the season, Djokovoic now aims for his fourth title in the ATP 1000 showpiece in China. Awaiting the 14-time Grand Slam winner is fourth seeded Alexander Zverev after the rising German star saw off Kyle Edmund of Britain 6-4, 6-4.

"He has improved a lot and he has established himself as a top player. It's going to be definitely a close match," said Djokovoic.

--IANS

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